If you’re looking to impress your family or guests with a dish that’s both delicious and fun to make, look no further than these meatballs stuffed with cheese. Each meatball is packed with gooey, melted cheese inside, making every bite a delightful surprise. Here’s how to make these cheesy meatballs:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Stuff the Meatballs:
- Take a small amount of the meat mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and flatten it in your hand.
- Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of the meat mixture.
- Carefully fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball, making sure the cheese is completely enclosed.
- Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Simmer in Marinara Sauce:
- Pour the marinara sauce into a large skillet or saucepan and heat over medium heat.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cheese inside to melt.
- Serve:
- Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta, on a sub roll for meatball sandwiches, or alongside a fresh salad.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Tips:
- For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before cooking. Just thaw and cook as directed when ready to use.
- Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese, like provolone or cheddar, for a unique twist.
Enjoy Your Cheesy Meatballs!
These meatballs stuffed with cheese are sure to be a hit at your next meal. With each bite revealing a deliciously melted cheese center, they’re a treat that combines savory meat with gooey cheese. Whether you serve them with pasta, in a sub roll, or just on their own, they’re sure to satisfy!