Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 grass-fed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (Himalayan or kosher)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
- 3 mozzarella string cheese, cut into fourths
Sauce and Cooking
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 10 to 11 patties about 3 inches in diameter. Place a mozzarella cheese piece in the center of each patty and carefully fold the meat around the cheese to form meatballs, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
- Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning every couple of minutes, until all sides are browned and the internal juices run clear, indicating they are fully cooked and the cheese inside is melted.
- Remove Meatballs: Take the cooked meatballs out of the skillet and set them aside on a serving plate to keep warm.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the heavy whipping cream and tomato paste. Heat over medium heat until the sauce begins to bubble vigorously. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Pour the creamy tomato sauce over the meatballs or serve on the side, enjoying the rich combination of melted cheese and savory beef with the smooth sauce.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh mozzarella string cheese to ensure good melting inside the meatballs.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Cook the meatballs thoroughly to avoid undercooked beef and to let the cheese inside melt perfectly.
- The sauce can be adjusted in thickness by adding a little water or broth if it becomes too thick during heating.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American