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Mozzarella Stuffed Spaghetti Meatballs

Mozzarella Stuffed Spaghetti Meatballs are a deliciously indulgent twist on the classic spaghetti and meatballs. Each meatball is filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, creating a surprise melty center that adds richness and extra flavor. Paired with a savory tomato sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this dish combines comfort food favorites into one mouthwatering meal. Here’s a recipe for you to try!

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 oz (225g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz/800g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

For the Spaghetti:

  • 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
  • Salt, for boiling water

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meatballs:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
    • Take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and wrap the meat around it, forming a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent it from leaking out during cooking. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
  2. Cook the Meatballs:
    • In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides (about 6-8 minutes). Set the browned meatballs aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add a pinch of sugar if desired. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to develop flavors.
    • Add the browned meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and soak up the sauce.
  4. Cook the Spaghetti:
    • While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  5. Assemble the Dish:
    • Serve the meatballs over the cooked spaghetti, spooning the tomato sauce generously on top.
    • Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Serve:

Enjoy these decadent Mozzarella-Stuffed Spaghetti Meatballs, where the surprise of gooey cheese inside each tender meatball adds a fun and tasty twist to a classic Italian favorite. Perfect for a family dinner or a special treat!