Welcome to the world of cheesy, delicious, and irresistible homemade Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs! This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also combines the gooey goodness of mozzarella with tender, juicy meatballs, making it a favorite for any dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or something special for a weekend gathering, these low-carb and keto-friendly meatballs are sure to impress. Using just a few key ingredients, you can have this dish ready in just under 40 minutes, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
- Only 40 minutes to make! Quick and ideal for busy nights.
- Low Carb and Keto-Friendly. Perfect for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
- Beginner friendly! Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs for anyone to try.
- Gooey cheese center. Each bite is a delightful surprise with melted mozzarella.
- Perfect for meal prep! Make ahead for grab-and-go options during the week.
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Ingredients for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- For a creamier center, use fresh mozzarella balls.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Enhance the flavor with homemade Italian seasoning.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
For a gluten-free option, make sure your Parmesan is freshly grated and not pre-packaged with additives.
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How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs – Step by Step
Preparing the Meatball Mixture
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, mix the ground beef, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined but avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough meatballs.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when it’s time to bake.
Forming and Baking the Meatballs
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
- Take a small portion of the meat mixture, about the size of a ping-pong ball, and flatten it in your palm.
- Place a small piece of cheese in the center, then fold the meat mixture around it to form a sealed ball.
Step 4: Bake
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the meatballs evenly apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Finishing Touches
Step 5: Sauce It Up
- Heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Once meatballs are baked, transfer them into the sauce and let them simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley for freshness, if desired.
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- Can I make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs ahead of time? Yes, prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge or freeze before baking.
- What is the secret to the best Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs? Ensuring the meat is properly seasoned and not overmixed.
- Substitute turkey for an alternative low-fat protein option.
- Use a small ice cream scoop for uniform meatball size.
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Best Ways to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative.
- Pair with our Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe for a savory side.
- The best way to serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs is with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil.
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Nutritional Information for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
- Calories: 380 kcal per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 3g
This dish offers a low-carb option that’s both satisfying and packed with flavors.
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Storage & Leftovers
- How long do Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs last in the fridge? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For freezing, store cooled meatballs in a single layer, wrap, and keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a saucepan over medium heat.
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FAQs for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
1. Can I freeze Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
Yes, freeze them before baking for best results or after if fully cooked, then reheat.
2. What can I use instead of ground beef in Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs?
Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or Italian sausage for added flavor.
3. How do I prevent cheese from leaking out during cooking?
Ensure meat is sealed tightly around cheese, and chill formed meatballs for 10 minutes before baking.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, try provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
—Related Recipes for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs (Low Carb, Keto)
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Delicious mozzarella stuffed meatballs that are low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a cheese cube in the center, then fold the meat around the cheese to create a ball. Repeat until all the meat mixture is used.
- Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart evenly.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
- In a saucepan, heat the sugar-free marinara sauce over medium heat.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- These meatballs freeze well. You can make a double batch and store them for quick meals later.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, Low Carb, Keto, Meatball Recipe, Italian