Looking for a dinner that combines rich, smoky flavors and gooey, cheesy indulgence? These Smoky Bacon Sauce & Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Tender meatballs stuffed with melty mozzarella are smothered in a smoky bacon sauce that’s as bold as it is delicious. I found this unforgettable recipe on FBRecipes, and it’s destined to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Meatballs

These meatballs bring together all the elements of comfort food: tender beef, creamy cheese, and a rich, smoky sauce. They’re perfect as a main dish over pasta, as a party appetizer, or even in sandwiches. Plus, the smoky bacon sauce adds a unique twist that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Smoky Bacon Sauce & Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

For the Smoky Bacon Sauce:

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
   • Take a small portion of the mixture, flatten it in your hand, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Wrap the meat mixture around the cheese, forming a ball. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside (they will finish cooking in the sauce).
3. Make the Smoky Bacon Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
   • Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
   • Stir in heavy cream and cooked bacon.
4. Combine and Simmer:
   • Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the meatballs hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the smoky sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Servings: 4-6
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

Tips for Perfect Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs

• Seal the Cheese: Ensure the meat mixture completely encases the mozzarella to prevent leaks during cooking.
• Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Prep Ahead: Assemble the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Serve with Style: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

These Smoky Bacon Sauce & Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are a hearty, satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and explore more incredible recipes on FBRecipes!

Smoky Bacon Sauce & Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs: A Flavor Explosion

Looking for a dinner that combines rich, smoky flavors and gooey, cheesy indulgence? These Smoky Bacon Sauce & Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Tender meatballs stuffed with melty mozzarella are smothered in a smoky bacon sauce that’s as bold as it is delicious. I found this unforgettable recipe on FBRecipes, and it’s destined to become a family favorite!

By Jason GriffithPublished on December 20, 2024

Prep Time15 min

Cook Time30 min

Total Time45 min

Servings4 servings

Category: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 lb ground pork
• 2 cup breadcrumbs
• 4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoon salt
• 4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cup heavy cream
• 6 slices bacon, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
3. Take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and wrap the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. In a skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
5. In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the cooked bacon and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve the meatballs drizzled with the smoky bacon sauce.

Nutrition Information

@type: NutritionInformation

Calories: 650 calories

Protein Content: 40g

Carbohydrate Content: 30g

Fat Content: 45g

Tags: meatballs, bacon sauce, Italian recipe, dinner, comfort food

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