Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatball Bakes
These Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a healthier and equally delicious alternative to the traditional fried version. With a cheesy mozzarella center and a flavorful beef mixture, these meatballs are baked to perfection, making them golden on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside. Paired with marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb Mince (ground beef)
- ½ cup Breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley chopped
- 1 large Egg
- 2 cloves Garlic, mince
- ½ tsp Salt or to taste
- ½ tsp Black pepper or to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 cup Mozzarella cubed
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups Marinara sauce
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic paste, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Stuff the Meatballs:
- Take a small portion of the meatball mixture (about 2 tablespoons), and flatten it in the palm of your hand.Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center, then carefully fold the edges of the meat around the cheese to completely encase it.Roll the mixture into a ball, ensuring the cheese is fully hidden inside. Repeat with the remaining mixture and mozzarella.
Bake the Meatballs:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the meatballs on the baking sheet, making sure they are spaced a little apart.Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.
Simmer in Marinara Sauce:
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning (if using) in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and let it simmer until the meatballs are ready.
Combine and Serve:
- Once the meatballs are done, transfer them carefully to the saucepan with marinara sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve:
- Serve your baked mozzarella stuffed meatballs over pasta, with extra marinara sauce, or with some crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Tips:
- For a crispy exterior, you can broil the meatballs for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- You can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.