Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Cooking spray
- Meatball scoop or spoon
- Toothpicks
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Take a small portion of the beef mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and shape the beef mixture into a ball around the cheese. Repeat until all the beef mixture is used up.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the marinara sauce. Heat the sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
6. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Insert a toothpick into each meatball and dip it into the marinara sauce. Place the meatballs back on the baking sheet.
8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the meatballs.
9. Return the meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 26g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese that melts well.
- Marinara sauce can be substituted with any other type of tomato-based sauce.
Variations:
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a different flavor.
- Add Italian seasoning to the beef mixture for a more traditional Italian flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a meatball scoop or spoon to ensure that all the meatballs are the same size.
- Make sure to seal the cheese inside the meatball so that it doesn't leak out during cooking.
- Use toothpicks to make it easier to dip the meatballs in the marinara sauce.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the meatballs in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese over the meatballs for added flavor and presentation.
Pairings:
Serve the meatballs with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Spaghetti or other pasta
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese leaks out of the meatballs during cooking, try sealing the meatballs more tightly around the cheese.
- If the meatballs are dry, try adding more milk or a little bit of water to the beef mixture.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the meatballs to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure that they are safe to eat.
Food history:
Meatballs are a popular dish in many cultures, including Italian, Swedish, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy from the marinara sauce.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the meatballs as an appetizer or as a main dish with a side salad and garlic bread.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian