Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional for serving)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Take small portions of the mixture and flatten them in your hand. Place a small spoonful of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, then mold the meat around the cheese to form a compact ball or oval. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat. Arrange the bites evenly spaced on the sheet.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through and browned on the outside.
- If desired, brush the tops with marinara sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking. Serve hot with additional sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding herbs like parsley or basil to the mixture.
- Use different cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for variation.
- For a crispy exterior, coat the shaped bites with panko bread crumbs before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Adaptable to gluten-free with gluten-free bread crumbs
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites (about 50 grams)
- Calories: 150 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 10 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 12 grams
- Cholesterol: 40 mg