There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of cheese and meat, especially when they’re nestled together in a single bite. These Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara are a true delight, bringing together savory flavors and gooey cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe transforms a classic dish into something special with its surprise cheesy center. Whether you’re serving it with pasta or on its own, these meatballs are sure to please everyone at the table.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set it aside for later use.
- Combine panko breadcrumbs and milk in a small bowl, allowing them to soak for 5 minutes to soften.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mix the ground beef, Italian sausage, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the soaked panko mixture until well combined.
- Divide the meat mixture into 36 equal portions. Press a mozzarella cheese cube into the center of each portion, then wrap the meat around the cheese and form it into a ball.
- Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of plain panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 and 1/2 pounds of lean ground beef
- 1 pound of Italian pork sausage
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
- 36 mozzarella cheese cubes, each 1/2 inch in size
FAQ
- Can I use different types of cheese for the stuffed meatballs?
- Absolutely! While mozzarella is a popular choice for its stretchiness, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Is it possible to freeze mozzarella stuffed meatballs?
- Yes, you can freeze these meatballs. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for about 3-4 months. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat by baking at 350 F until heated through.
- What are some serving suggestions for mozzarella stuffed meatballs?
- These meatballs are versatile; serve them as an appetizer, with a generous serving of spaghetti and marinara sauce, or use them in a homemade meatball sub for a hearty meal.
- How can I ensure the cheese stays inside the meatballs while cooking?
- Use 1/2 inch cheese cubes to minimize leakage. If the cheese pieces are too large, the meat won’t seal properly, and some cheese may escape during baking. It’s normal for a little cheese to leak out, which you can scoop up and add to your dish.
- Can I make the meatballs healthier by using different meats?
- Certainly! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey and use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage for a leaner version of these meatballs.
Tips
- Opt for high-quality sausage that you enjoy, as it significantly influences the flavor of the meatballs.
- Use 1/2-inch cheese cubes to ensure they are fully enclosed by the meat, reducing the chance of cheese leakage during cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses instead of mozzarella to add variety to your dish.
- For easy cleanup, use foil to line your baking sheet, or lightly oil it if you prefer not to use foil.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet – A high-quality, non-stick baking sheet is essential for even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Meatball Scoop – Useful for portioning out equal-sized meatballs.
- Mixing Bowls – A set of durable mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
- Tin Foil – Useful for lining the baking sheet for easier cleanup.
- Oven Thermometer – To ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.
- Temperature Probe – To check if the meatballs are cooked through without cutting them open.
