Ingredients:
1 pound lean ground beef (93%-7% fat)
½ pound ground mild Italian sausage
1 large egg
⅓ cup breadcrumbs
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese (plus additional 1-2 tablespoons for garnish)
⅓ cup finely diced yellow onion
2 tablespoons half & half
2 teaspoons grated garlic
1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning blend
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
15 cubes (3/4-inch) mozzarella cheese
24 ounce jar of tomato & basil marinara sauce
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray with olive oil cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, mild Italian sausage, egg, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, diced yellow onion, half & half, grated garlic, Italian seasoning blend, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring not to overmix.
Using a 2-inch-sized cookie scoop, portion out the meat mixture into 15 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disc shape and place a mozzarella cheese cube in the center. Gently fold the sides of the meat mixture over the cheese, forming it into a ball shape.
Arrange the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each meatball.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a medium skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about five minutes.
To serve, spoon some warm marinara sauce onto a serving plate, arrange the meatballs on top, and drizzle with additional sauce. Garnish with grated parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy these delectable Cheese Stuffed Meatballs as a hearty main course, and savor every bite!
Prep Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes Total Time: 45-50 minutes Servings: 15 meatballs