Description
A delicious appetizer featuring meatballs stuffed with gooey mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form Meatballs: Take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and wrap the meat around it, forming a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake: Cook in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is melted inside. If desired, finish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to get a golden, crispy exterior.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For variation, you can add chopped spinach or finely diced bell peppers to the meat mixture.
- Ensure the cheese cubes are completely sealed inside the meatballs to prevent them from leaking during baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F (70°C) for safety.
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and chopped parsley before serving for extra flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 meatballs