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Albóndigas Rellenas de Mozzarella en Salsa

Delicious meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella, simmered in a rich marinara sauce, bringing comfort and joy to the dinner table.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the meatballs
  • 1 lb ground beef Fresh beef provides richer flavors compared to pre-cooked options.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Helps bind the meatballs while adding texture.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
  • 1 egg Acts as a binder for the meat mixture.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced For aromatic depth.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Brings an earthy flavor that complements the meat.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Adds freshness and color.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed The star of the dish, providing gooey centers.
For the sauce
  • 2 cups marinara sauce A luscious base that ties everything together.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated but don’t overwork the meat.
  2. Take a small portion of the mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and mold the meat around it, forming a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped into meatballs.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Carefully add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Use tongs to turn gently to avoid breaking them.
  2. Pour the marinara sauce over the browned meatballs, ensuring they are all submerged. Cover the skillet and let simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve
  1. Serve the meatballs hot over a plate of pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Notes

Tips for the best results: Use fresh herbs whenever possible for brighter flavors. If you prefer a bit more kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. Always let the meatballs rest in the sauce for a few minutes after cooking; this enhances their flavor and juiciness. For variations, substitute half the ground beef with minced pork for a richer flavor profile, or use different cheeses like provolone or gouda if mozzarella isn’t your favorite. For a lighter version, bake the meatballs in the oven instead of frying.