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Stuffed Meatballs With Mozzarella Cheese – Easy Comforting Dinner Recipe. Realistic Photo Casual Kitchen Settings

Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese

Juicy homemade meatballs stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese and simmered in tomato sauce for a comforting, family-friendly meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80–85% lean)
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp dried basil
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 16 small cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups tomato sauce (plain, smooth)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the mozzarella by cutting it into 16 small, even cubes and set them aside in the refrigerator so they stay firm.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
  • Use clean hands or a spoon to gently combine the meat mixture just until everything is evenly mixed, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  • Divide the meat mixture into 16 equal portions by shaping it into a rough log and cutting it into even pieces, or by using a tablespoon to scoop similar amounts.
  • Take one portion of the meat mixture in your hand, flatten it into a small disc, and place one cube of mozzarella cheese in the center.
  • Carefully wrap the meat around the mozzarella cube, sealing it completely so no cheese is exposed, then roll it into a smooth ball; repeat with the remaining meat and mozzarella cubes.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it is hot but not smoking.
  • Place the stuffed meatballs in the skillet in a single layer, leaving a little space between them so they brown properly.
  • Cook the meatballs for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning them gently every couple of minutes, until they are browned on most sides.
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low, pour the tomato sauce evenly over the meatballs, and gently move them so they are lightly coated in the sauce.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid and let the meatballs simmer in the tomato sauce for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
  • Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to slightly thicken the tomato sauce if desired.
  • Turn off the heat, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the stuffed meatballs with mozzarella cheese, and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.