Cheesy Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well-combined.

Stuff the Meatballs: Take a small portion of the meatball mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and shape the meat around the cheese, sealing it inside. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Bake the Meatballs: Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add Italian seasoning if desired and let it simmer.

Combine and Serve: Once the meatballs are done baking, gently add them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Stir carefully to coat the meatballs evenly.

Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the meatballs hot with pasta, on a sandwich, or on their own. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips: