Stuffed Meatballs with Vegetables and Cheese

Johanon

Stuffed Meatballs with Vegetables and Cheese

Introduction

Transform a classic favorite into a gourmet delight with these Stuffed Meatballs with Vegetables and Cheese. Juicy, flavorful, and oozing with melted cheese, they’re perfect for dinner, meal prep, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. This recipe is both comforting and versatile, catering to all occasions.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Stuffing:

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup finely chopped vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini)

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation Tips

  1. Keep Meat Cold: Chilled meat is easier to handle and shape.
  2. Finely Chop Vegetables: Ensure the vegetables are small enough to avoid tearing the meat.
  3. Seal Meatballs Well: This prevents the cheese from leaking during cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Gently mix until combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

  1. In a separate bowl, mix shredded mozzarella and chopped vegetables.

Step 3: Assemble the Meatballs

  1. Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of the vegetable-cheese mixture to the center.
  3. Carefully fold the meat around the stuffing and roll it into a ball, ensuring the filling is sealed inside.
  4. Repeat with the remaining meat and stuffing.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil.
  2. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and fully cooked, about 10-12 minutes.

Oven Method:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Arrange the meatballs on a serving platter.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, if desired.
  3. Serve hot with marinara sauce, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Description

These Stuffed Meatballs are a perfect blend of juicy meat, savory vegetables, and gooey cheese. Whether you enjoy them as a main course or a snack, their rich flavor and cheesy surprise make them a true crowd favorite.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

Calories: 320

Protein: 25g

Carbohydrates: 10g

Fat: 20g

Saturated Fat: 8g

Fiber: 1g

Sodium: 580mg

FAQs

  1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
    Yes, they can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  2. Can I freeze them?
    Absolutely! Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  3. What other cheese works well?
    Try cheddar, Gouda, or feta for a fun twist on flavor.
  4. What vegetables can I use?
    Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini are great choices.
  5. How can I keep the meatballs from falling apart?
    Ensure the mixture is well-combined and the meatballs are tightly sealed around the stuffing.

Recommendations

Add Sauce: Pair with marinara, Alfredo, or BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Make Mini Meatballs: Create smaller, bite-sized portions for appetizers.

Add Spice: Include red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

These Stuffed Meatballs with Vegetables and Cheese are a delicious and creative spin on a classic. With their cheesy filling and juicy texture, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy them fresh and savor the flavors!

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