If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy delight, meatballs with provolone cheese are the ultimate comfort food. The combination of the rich, savory meatballs and the melty, slightly sharp taste of provolone brings out a symphony of flavors. Here, we'll delve into five distinct meatball recipes that incorporate this delicious cheese. Each recipe will give you a unique taste experience while making the most of fresh provolone's rich qualities.
1. Classic Italian Meatballs with Provolone
Start with the basics:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1⁄2 pound of ground pork
- 1⁄2 cup of fresh breadcrumbs
- 1⁄4 cup of milk
- 2 eggs
- 1⁄2 cup of grated Parmesan
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley and basil, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper
- 6 slices of provolone cheese, cut into small squares
Mix all the ingredients except the provolone. Shape into meatballs, making a small dent in the center. Insert a piece of provolone, then cover and seal with the meat mixture. Cook these meatballs in tomato sauce for about 20 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts inside. The melted provolone enhances the depth of flavor, making each bite a savory treat.
🍴 Note: Ensure the meatballs are cooked evenly to avoid raw centers.
2. Pesto and Provolone Stuffed Meatballs
For this recipe:
- 1 pound of ground turkey
- 1⁄4 cup of pesto sauce
- 1⁄2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1⁄4 cup of shredded Parmesan
- Provolone cheese, cut into cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients except the provolone. Shape the turkey mixture around the provolone cubes, creating stuffed meatballs. Bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes until golden and cooked through. Pesto infuses an aromatic flavor, while the cheese adds a gourmet touch.
🌿 Note: Basil pesto provides a strong flavor, so you can adjust according to your taste.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Provolone Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1.5 pounds of ground beef
- 1⁄4 cup of finely chopped jalapeños
- 1⁄2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and pepper
- Provolone cheese, cut into cubes
Mix beef with jalapeños, spices, and breadcrumbs. Form meatballs, stuffing each with a cube of provolone. Fry or bake until crispy on the outside, ensuring the cheese is melted inside. The jalapeños add a spicy kick, making this dish perfect for those who love heat.
4. Mediterranean Meatballs with Provolone
Collect these ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground lamb
- 1⁄2 cup of chopped spinach
- 1⁄4 cup of feta cheese crumbles
- 1⁄2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Dried oregano and cumin
- Provolone cheese, diced
- Salt and pepper
Mix lamb, spinach, feta, and seasonings. Make meatballs, adding a piece of provolone in the center. Grill or bake, using olive oil to prevent sticking. The feta and provolone contribute to a Mediterranean flair, complementing the lamb's flavor.
🌱 Note: Substituting ground beef for lamb can still yield a delicious result.
5. BBQ Glazed Meatballs with Provolone
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1⁄2 cup of finely chopped onion
- 1⁄4 cup of BBQ sauce
- 1⁄2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar
- Provolone cheese, diced
- Additional BBQ sauce for glazing
Create the meatballs by combining beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Insert a piece of provolone inside each ball. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, then glaze with BBQ sauce for the last 5 minutes. The BBQ glaze adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the cheese’s sharpness.
As you've seen, these meatball recipes with fresh provolone cheese offer something for everyone, from the traditional Italian taste to bold, spicy variations. The key to each recipe is the melding of flavors where provolone serves as both a meltingly delicious surprise and a rich taste enhancer. These dishes are perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in with a gourmet touch.
Each recipe has been crafted to highlight the unique flavors of provolone, ensuring each meatball is not only a taste sensation but also a testament to the versatility of this wonderful cheese. Experiment with these recipes, adjust the seasonings to your taste, and enjoy the comforting warmth of homemade meatballs.
Can I substitute provolone with another cheese?
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Yes, you can try cheeses like mozzarella for a similar melty texture, or for a different flavor profile, consider cheddar or gouda. The result might differ slightly but will still be delicious.
How do I prevent the cheese from melting out?
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Ensure you seal the meat tightly around the cheese to prevent any openings. Also, try to use smaller pieces of cheese and keep the meatballs compact.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
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These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or simply on their own with a side of marinara or BBQ sauce for dipping.
Can I make these meatballs in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare the meatballs, store them in the refrigerator or freezer, and cook them when needed. Just increase the cooking time if they’re frozen.
Related Terms:
- meatball recipe fresh provolone
