Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and wrap the meat around it, forming a sealed ball.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Do not cook through completely.
- Transfer seared meatballs to a deep skillet or pot. Pour in marinara sauce. Cover and simmer on low for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and cheese is melted inside.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
- Chill the meatballs before searing to help seal in the cheese.
- Use low-moisture mozzarella for best melting with minimal leaking.
- For a lighter version, swap beef for ground turkey and add a splash of olive oil for moisture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop + Simmer
- Cuisine: Italian-American