Stuffed Mozzarella Beef Meatballs

Juicy, Italian-inspired beef meatballs with a hidden molten mozzarella center, served in a rich tomato-basil sauce.

Prep: 20 min · Cook: 30 min · Yield: 4 · Method: Stovetop

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 count egg
• 2 clove garlic
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 0.25 cup basil

Cooking instructions

1. Cut the mozzarella cheese into 12 small cubes. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic until just combined.
2. Divide the beef mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion, place a mozzarella cube in the center, and roll into a ball, ensuring the cheese is fully sealed inside.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides for 8 minutes, turning carefully. (about 8 min)
4. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, bring to a simmer, and cover. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F. (about 15 min)
5. Remove the lid and stir in chopped basil. Serve warm.