Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Luxe Meatball Delight?
It is a decadent meatball dish made from a blend of ground beef and pork, stuffed with mozzarella or provolone cheese and served in a robust tomato sauce.
What meats are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a 50/50 blend of 1.5 lbs of ground beef and 1.5 lbs of ground pork.
What kind of cheese is inside the meatballs?
The meatballs are stuffed with 1/2 inch cubes of either mozzarella or provolone cheese.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Ensure you securely seal the meat around the cheese cubes to prevent them from oozing out during the cooking process.
Can I use a different type of meat?
While the recipe calls for beef and pork, you can experiment with ground turkey, though the flavor and texture will vary.
What type of sauce is recommended?
The recipe suggests 48 ounces of tomato sauce, which can be either premade or homemade.
How should these meatballs be served?
They are delicious served over a bed of pasta or tucked into a freshly baked Italian bread roll.
Are these meatballs gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains 1 cup of breadcrumbs, but you could substitute them with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
How many eggs are required for the mixture?
The recipe calls for 3 large eggs, lightly beaten.
What is the purpose of adding milk?
Milk helps to hydrate the breadcrumbs and ensures the meatballs remain moist and tender.
Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?
While the recipe suggests frying in olive oil for a rich crust, you can bake them in the oven until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
How much garlic is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 minced garlic cloves.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, though fresh parsley is preferred for flavor; use about one-third of the amount if substituting with dried.
How big should the cheese cubes be?
The cheese should be cut into 1/2 inch cubes for the perfect melty center.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, these are great for meal prep and can serve as hearty lunches or dinners throughout the week.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can these meatballs be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze them either raw (after shaping) or cooked in the sauce for up to 3 months.
What is the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by a beloved Williams-Sonoma meatball recipe.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
Olive oil is recommended for frying the meatballs to add to the Italian flavor profile.
How much tomato sauce do I need?
You will need 48 ounces of tomato sauce to properly coat and simmer the meatballs.
Is there a garnish recommended for this dish?
Yes, garnish with fresh minced parsley and grated parmesan cheese before serving.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
The recipe specifies 1 3/4 teaspoons of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper, but you can adjust to taste.
Should the meat be cold when I mix it?
Keeping the meat cold while mixing helps prevent the fat from melting, resulting in a better texture.
Can I use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs?
Yes, panko breadcrumbs can be used for a slightly lighter texture.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Can I add other herbs to the meat mixture?
Absolutely, dried oregano or basil would be excellent additions to the savory profile.
Is this recipe suitable for families?
Yes, it is tagged as a family meal and is generally a hit with both kids and adults.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients used in this recipe.
Is parmesan cheese mixed into the meatballs?
No, the parmesan is specifically listed for garnish and serving rather than inside the meat mixture.
What makes these meatballs 'luxe'?
The combination of high-quality meats and the surprise molten cheese center provides a luxurious eating experience.