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Crispy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

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These crispy mozzarella stuffed meatballs feature a golden crust with a molten cheesy center, served in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick, comforting dinner that impresses both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
  • 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for sauce)
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish and flavor)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Pinch of salt and sugar (to balance acidity)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tomato sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and a small pinch of sugar. Stir well, then reduce heat to low and let simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Make the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly by hand.
  4. Stuff the meatballs: Take about 2 tablespoons of meat mixture, flatten it slightly, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then wrap the meat around it and roll into a smooth ball. Repeat for all meat mixture.
  5. Fry the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in batches without overcrowding. Cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Transfer fried meatballs into the simmering tomato sauce. Cover and simmer gently for another 10 minutes to cook through and absorb flavor.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Chill shaped meatballs for 15 minutes before frying to prevent cheese leakage. Keep hands damp when shaping to avoid sticking. Use medium-high heat for frying to get a crispy crust without burning. Simmer meatballs in sauce to finish cooking and infuse flavor. Fresh mozzarella quality affects melting and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella stuffed meatballs, crispy meatballs, tomato sauce, easy dinner, comfort food, weeknight meal

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