MOZZARELLA-STUFFED PORK MEATBALLS WITH HOMEMADE TOMATO SAUCE

Elevate your weekend meal with these juicy pork meatballs hiding a delightful surprise—a gooey cube of mozzarella in every bite. Paired with a fresh, aromatic tomato sauce bursting with garlic and basil, these meatballs are a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect served with tagliatelle or your favorite pasta.

🕒 Prep Time: 30 min

⏲️ Cooking Time: 20 min
🍽️ Yields: Approx. 30 medium meatballs

Ingredients

Meatballs:

500 g ground pork
1 egg
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
½ bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 heaping teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon chili flakes
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
100 g mozzarella, cut into 1 cm cubes
Oil for frying

Tomato Sauce:

3 large ripe tomatoes
3 garlic cloves
1 small onion
6 fresh basil leaves
Salt, black pepper, dried oregano (to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients except mozzarella.
Mix thoroughly with your hands until uniform.
Cut mozzarella into 1 cm cubes.
With wet hands, shape meat mixture into balls, inserting a mozzarella cube in the center of each and sealing carefully.

2. Fry the Meatballs

Heat oil in a pan to a depth of about two finger widths.
Fry meatballs over medium-low heat to avoid burning the outside while ensuring they cook through inside.
Turn frequently for even browning on all sides.
Remove and drain on paper towels once golden and cooked.

3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Blanch and peel the tomatoes.
Finely chop onion and garlic.
In a pan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
Add pureed or finely chopped tomatoes, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano.
Simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
Stir in fresh basil leaves and cook for an additional minute.

4. Serve

Plate meatballs with the warm tomato sauce.
Serve alongside cooked tagliatelle or your favorite pasta.

💡 Tips

Keep your hands wet when forming meatballs to prevent sticking.
Fry on medium-low heat for tender, evenly cooked meatballs.
Use fresh ripe tomatoes for a naturally sweet and rich sauce.
Mozzarella cubes can be substituted with other melty cheeses if preferred.

🎉 Perfect For

Family dinners with a cheesy surprise
Crowd-pleasing party appetizers
Pairing with pasta for a hearty meal

📝 Final Thoughts

These mozzarella-stuffed pork meatballs combine rustic flavors with a creamy, cheesy center that bursts with every bite. The fresh tomato sauce adds brightness and depth, making this dish both comforting and elegant. Whether served hot or reheated, it’s a guaranteed favorite for any occasion.