Description
Tender baked meatballs filled with melted mozzarella cheese and served with marinara sauce and spaghetti.
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef
1 large egg, beaten
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 to 6 ounces mozzarella, cut into 24 small cubes
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Marinara sauce, for serving
Cooked spaghetti, for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until everything comes together. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water if the mixture feels too dry.
3. Scoop the meat mixture into 24 portions. Press one mozzarella cube into the center of each portion, then shape the meat around the cheese to form 1 1/2-inch meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 17 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until fully cooked.
5. Serve warm with marinara sauce and cooked spaghetti, or use them in your favorite meatball dish.
Notes
Use low-moisture mozzarella for the best melted center.
Turn the meatballs halfway through baking for even browning.
Serve with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American