Cheese stuffed meatballs

Cheese-stuffed meatballs are a delicious twist on classic meatballs, offering a burst of gooey cheese in every bite. Here’s a simple recipe to make them:Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (about 1/2 inch each)

For the Sauce (optional):

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Take a small amount of the meat mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and gently form the meat mixture around the cheese, shaping it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes.
4. Arrange the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
5. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
6. While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare the sauce, if using. In a small saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until heated through.
7. Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
8. Serve the cheese-stuffed meatballs with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping or spoon the sauce over the meatballs.
9. Enjoy your cheesy and flavorful meatballs as a delicious appetizer, main dish, or served over pasta!

Feel free to customize these meatballs by using different types of cheese or adding herbs and spices to the meat mixture according to your taste preferences.