Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (optional; you can use all beef if preferred)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For the Filling:

• 8 oz (225g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

Additional:

• Olive oil, for frying
• Your favorite marinara sauce, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, beaten egg, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

2. Form the Meatballs:

Take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and wrap the meat around the cheese, rolling it between your palms to form a ball. Ensure the cheese is completely enclosed within the meat. Repeat with the remaining meat and cheese. You should end up with about 12 to 15 meatballs, depending on the size.

3. Brown the Meatballs:

Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides, turning them gently. They do not need to be cooked through at this stage—just browned on the outside. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

4. Simmer in Marinara Sauce:

Pour your favorite marinara sauce into the skillet used for browning the meatballs. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

5. Serve:

Serve the cheese-stuffed meatballs hot, with extra marinara sauce spooned over the top. They can be served on their own, with pasta, or with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.