Mozzarella Meatballs

Sometimes meatballs can get too complicated.  Delicious, but complicated.  These delicately balance complex flavor with easy technique.  It is my basic meatball recipe with a gooey, cheesy surprise that requires very little effort.  And they pair perfectly with the Spicy Bacon Tomato Sauce and spaghetti.

Mozzarella Meatballs
1 1/2 lb 80/20 ground beef
4 oz mozzarella, diced
2 eggs
1/3 C bread crumbs (seasoned or plain)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbsp chopped parsley
3/4 tsp salt (a little less or more depending on the amount of salt in your bread crumbs)
1/3 tsp black pepper

   Combine all ingredients except beef.
   Using your hands, work beef into mixture just until everything is evenly distributed.
   Form into 1 1/2 inch balls and place on a lightly sprayed baking sheet.
   Place in a 450 deg F oven for 7 minutes.
   Turn heat down to 350 deg F and cook another 10 minutes.
   (Reheat in simmering sauce if necessary.)
   Makes 18-20 meatballs.  (Serves 6-8)

Mozzarella Meatballs w/ Spicy Bacon Tomato Sauce over spaghetti