Herb-Infused Italian Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

Name: Herb-Infused Italian Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 1/4 cup milk; 3 cups marinara sauce; 2 tbsp olive oil

🕒 Prep: 20 min

🔥 Cook: 50 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

Be the First to Review!

If you're looking for a dish that brings comfort and a touch of elegance to your dinner table, these Herb-Infused Italian Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are just the ticket. Juicy and packed with gooey mozzarella, they're sure to impress at any gathering or simply elevate a weeknight meal.

Save Print Jump to Recipe

Ingredients for Herb-Infused Italian Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

Let's dive into why each ingredient is crucial. The blend of ground beef and ground pork gives the meatballs a rich and juicy texture, while breadcrumbs ensure they stay tender and moist. Eggs act as a binding agent, holding everything together. Parmesan cheese adds a savory umami kick, and the mozzarella cheese cubes tucked inside melt into a delightful surprise. Garlic and fresh herbs like parsley and basil infuse the meatballs with aromatic flavors, making them taste like they're straight from an Italian kitchen. A touch of salt and pepper brings it all together. To keep the mixture just right, a bit of milk adds moisture. Finally, a good marinara sauce and a splash of olive oil provide the perfect finishing touch.

Tips & Tricks

Use a cookie scoop to portion the meat mixture evenly.
To prevent sticking, dampen your hands with a little water before rolling the meatballs.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

Serving Suggestions

You can serve these meatballs over a bed of spaghetti for a classic pairing. They also make a great appetizer when served with toothpicks and a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping. For a lighter option, pair them with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread to mop up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use all beef or all pork instead of a mix?: Yes, you can use all beef or all pork, but the combination of both provides a richer flavor and better texture.
How do I store leftovers?: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can these meatballs be frozen?: Absolutely! You can freeze them either before or after cooking. If freezing after cooking, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Herb-Infused Italian Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it's ready when you are. Next, grab a large bowl and combine your ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. You want to mix these ingredients until they're well combined, but don't overdo it—you don't want tough meatballs.

Slowly incorporate the milk into your mixture. You're looking for a consistency that's moist but holds its shape. Divide this mixture into 24 portions. Flatten each portion in your hand, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and then roll it into a ball to encase the cheese completely.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You'll want to brown the meatballs in batches, cooking them for about 5 minutes per side. This step is crucial for locking in flavor, so don't rush it. As each batch is done, transfer the browned meatballs into a baking dish.

Once all the meatballs are nestled in your baking dish, pour the marinara sauce over them. Pop the dish in your preheated oven, and bake for about 20 minutes. You're aiming for meatballs that are cooked through and oozing with melted cheese.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Flavor explosion: A perfect mix of herbs and cheese.
Easy to make: Simple steps for a gourmet result.
Versatile: Great for a family meal or entertaining guests.
Melty cheese surprise: Each bite reveals a delicious cheese center.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 lb ground pork

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 large eggs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

1/4 cup milk

3 cups marinara sauce

2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.

3. Gradually add milk while mixing until the mixture is moist and holds together.

4. Divide the mixture into 24 portions. Flatten each portion and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Enclose the cheese by rolling the meat mixture into a ball.

5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs in batches, about 5 minutes per side, transferring to a baking dish as they are done.

6. Once all meatballs are browned and in the baking dish, pour marinara sauce over them.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and cheese is melted.

Save Print

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!