Description
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance, look no further than Crispy Garlic Parmesan Cheese Stuffed Meatballs. These delightful morsels are not just your average meatballs; they boast a tantalizing surprise of melted mozzarella cheese in the center, making each bite a heavenly experience. The appeal of stuffed meatballs lies in their versatility and the wonderful blend of textures and flavors they offer. Imagine biting into a crispy exterior that gives way to a juicy, flavorful interior filled with gooey cheese and aromatic garlic. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively party with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
- Add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and the egg. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix gently until just combined.
- Take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a teaspoon of mozzarella cheese in the center, then fold the meat around the cheese, ensuring it’s completely enclosed.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish, pour marinara sauce over them, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Notes
For variations, consider using different fillings like ricotta or feta cheese. You can also substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version, or use turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying and Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Meatballs, Cheese Stuffed, Garlic, Parmesan, Italian Meatballs