Cheddar Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara

To create the perfect Cheesy Delight Meatballs, it’s essential to understand the role of each ingredient in the recipe. The meatball mixture is the heart of the dish, and selecting the right components is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.

Savor the warmth of home-cooked comfort with Cheesy Delight Meatballs in Marinara. This delicious recipe transforms classic meatballs by featuring a gooey, cheesy center that melts in your mouth. Perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings, these meatballs blend ground beef and pork with Parmesan and seasoned breadcrumbs, topped with a rich marinara sauce. Enjoy the heartwarming experience of homemade meals that bring families together, making every bite memorable.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef

1/2 lb ground pork

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes

For the Marinara Sauce:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.

Stuff the Meatballs: Take a portion of the meat mixture, about the size of a golf ball. Make an indentation in the center and place a cube of sharp Cheddar cheese inside. Mold the meat around the cheese to completely encase it, forming a round meatball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Bake the Meatballs: Arrange the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and nicely browned.

Prepare the Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combine and Serve: Once the meatballs are cooked, gently place them into the simmering marinara sauce. Let them cooked together for an additional 5 minutes, so the meatballs absorb some of the sauce flavor.

Garnish and Serve: Serve the Cheddar stuffed meatballs over pasta or in sub rolls. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 55 mins | 4 servings