Polpetta Ripiena

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free and lower in calories.

mozzarella cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat mozzarella

💰Cheaper: cheddar cheese

Low-fat mozzarella reduces calories, while cheddar is often cheaper.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Oats are a healthier binder, while crushed crackers can be more economical.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.

Mix until well combined and form into small balls.

Make a small indentation in each meatball and insert a cube of mozzarella cheese, sealing it inside.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Transfer browned meatballs to a baking dish and cover with tomato sauce.

Sprinkle with basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes as desired.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.

Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens