Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs bring a delightful twist to traditional comfort food, enveloping tender, juicy meatballs with a gooey surprise of melted mozzarella cheese. Each bite is a hearty explosion of flavor, combining savory herbs and spices with the comforting allure of cheese. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your heart, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that’s bound to impress, this recipe is your go-to. Get ready to explore the world of scrumptious Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs with this step-by-step guide!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs. First and foremost, it features minimal ingredients – just simple, wholesome items you likely have on hand. The prep is swift, taking only a few minutes to mix and shape before they go into the oven. Plus, these meatballs emerge golden brown and bubbling, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether serving them over pasta, in a sub, or simply dipped in marinara sauce, they are versatile and delicious. They invoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of gather-round-the-table family dinners. Each bite captures the essence of comfort food, making this recipe a must-try!

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef, providing a rich, hearty base for the meatballs.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs, adding texture and a bit of crunch.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, bringing a salty, nutty depth of flavor.
1 large egg, acting as a binding agent for the mixture.
2 cloves garlic, minced, delivering an aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil, offering a blend of herbal freshness.
1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ensuring the perfect seasoning balance.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for stuffing, providing that melty, gooey goodness.
1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing, ensuring everything comes out golden without sticking.
2 cups marinara sauce, either store-bought or homemade, to complement the meatballs beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), for those who enjoy a little heat.
Fresh basil leaves for garnish, adding a pop of color and refreshing flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that golden, baked perfection.
Grease the Baking Sheet: Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil to prevent your meatballs from sticking and ensure they come out beautifully.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Work this mixture until everything is well integrated, feeling the texture come together under your fingers.
Shape the Meatballs: With a small amount of the meat mixture in your palm, flatten it slightly. Place about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, then carefully fold the meat around the cheese to completely seal it. Roll it gently into a smooth ball, and place it on the greased baking sheet.
Repeat the Process: Continue shaping the meatballs with the remaining mixture, ensuring each one is generously stuffed with that glorious mozzarella.
Bake: Once all your meatballs are on the baking sheet, pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through, achieving that irresistible exterior.
Prepare the Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat your marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. If you like a bit of spice, add the red pepper flakes for that extra kick and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve and Garnish: Once your meatballs are ready, serve them hot drizzled in marinara sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly torn basil leaves for a touch of vibrancy and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

To get the best results out of your Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, try these tips and tricks:

Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat mixture, avoid overmixing. Gently folding everything together maintains the tenderness of the meatballs.
Chill the Mixture: If you have time, refrigerate the formed meatballs for 30 minutes before baking. This helps them maintain their shape while cooking.
Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, opt for fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter flavor profile in your meatballs and marinara.
Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese in with the mozzarella for a flavor variety.
Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition of your meatballs by incorporating finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the mixture.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs can be served in a multitude of delightful ways. Perhaps the most popular option is over a bed of spaghetti, allowing the marinara sauce to soak into the pasta beautifully. Alternatively, consider presenting them in a sub sandwich with melted cheese for a hearty meatball sub. They also shine as a standalone appetizer at gatherings or parties, served alongside toothpicks and a warm marinara dip. For a complete meal, pair these meatballs with a fresh side salad, toasted garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced feast.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs (approximately 2 meatballs with sauce) contains around 350 calories. They provide a good amount of protein from the beef and cheese, essential for muscle repair and growth. The addition of herbs offers various vitamins and antioxidants. However, as with all meals, balance is key: serve with fiber-rich sides like whole grain pasta or a hearty salad to create a nutritious plate.

Storing Tips & Variations

Storing your Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs is simple! Allow any leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 375°F for about 25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also experiment with this recipe by swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Add different cheeses for stuffing, or incorporate various spices to customize the flavor profile according to your taste.

Conclusion

Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are not just a meal; they are a heartwarming experience. With their gooey, cheesy center and robust flavors, they are sure to steal the show on any dinner table. So why not gather your ingredients and dive into this delightful recipe? Your family and friends will appreciate the effort, and you’ll enjoy every delicious bite! Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you made to the recipe – we love hearing how everyone makes these scrumptious meatballs their own!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and pairs well with the other ingredients.
Are the meatballs freezable?
Absolutely! They freeze well, so you can prepare a batch and save them for a busy day.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
You can use any preferred tomato sauce or even a creamy sauce for a different flavor profile.
Can I bake these meatballs without cheese?
While the cheese adds a special touch, you can omit it for a quality meatball—just adjust your cooking time if needed.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Classic sides include pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad, but roasted veggies are also fantastic for a healthy option!