Stuffed Meatballs with Vegetables and Cheese are a delicious twist on classic meatballs, filled with savory ingredients like cheese, vegetables, and herbs. These meatballs are juicy on the inside and full of flavor. They can be served as a main dish with pasta, on a sub roll, or as a fun appetizer. Here’s a recipe to make them:
Stuffed Meatballs with Vegetables and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for more flavor)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk (or water, to bind the breadcrumbs)
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry (or fresh spinach sautéed with a little garlic, then squeezed dry)
- 1/4 cup finely diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup finely diced onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the sauce (optional):
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the shredded mozzarella cheese, cooked spinach, diced bell pepper, diced onion, garlic powder (optional), and salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Make the meatball mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano (if using), salt, pepper, and milk. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until fully combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
3. Form the meatballs:
- Take a small portion of the meatball mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it into a disc shape in the palm of your hand.
- Place a spoonful of the cheese and vegetable filling in the center.
- Gently fold the edges of the meat around the filling and roll the meatball between your hands to seal it. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.
4. Cook the meatballs:
- Option 1: Baking – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
- Option 2: Frying – Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). You may need to lower the heat to ensure they cook through without burning on the outside.
5. Optional: Simmer in sauce:
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can simmer the cooked meatballs in marinara sauce. Heat the marinara sauce in a large pot and gently add the cooked meatballs. Let them simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve:
- Serve the stuffed meatballs with pasta, on a sub roll, or with a side of vegetables. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy!
Tips:
- Customize the filling: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, like zucchini or mushrooms, or use a different cheese (cheddar, provolone, etc.).
- Make ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to a day or freeze them for later use. Just cook from frozen, adding extra time if needed.
- Serving ideas: Serve with pasta, in a sub sandwich with marinara sauce, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
These Stuffed Meatballs with Vegetables and Cheese are a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the savory, cheesy surprise inside each meatball!