Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 lb hot Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 8 oz mozzarella pearls
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk; let sit for 5 minutes until a paste forms.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and the breadcrumb paste. Mix by hand until just combined.
  3. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place one mozzarella pearl in the center, fold the meat around the cheese, and pinch the edges tightly to seal. Roll into a smooth sphere.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear meatballs in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until a mahogany-colored crust forms.
  5. Pour the tomato sauce directly over the browned meatballs. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes.