Meatballs a la Pizzaiola

By Kbird

Ingredients

• 2 large shallots, peeled and chopped
• 1/3 c. packed fresh basil
• 1/3 c. shredded mozzarella
• 1/4 c. grated Parmesan
• 1 Tbs. tomato paste
• 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1 1/2 lb. ground beef (80/20)
• 1 lb. ground pork
• 6 oz. smoked mozzarella or provolone, cut in 1/2" cubes
• 1/3 c. olive oil
• Marinara sauce, warmed

Details

Servings 36

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray baking sheet with cooking spray.

In food processor, pulse the shallots, basil, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, tomato paste, red peppers flakes, and salt. Process until blended. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add the meat and stir until well combined. Form into 36 equal sized meatballs (about 1 1/4-1 1/2 inches in diameter.)

Insert cube of smoked cheese in the middle of each meatball.

Heat half the olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Add half of the meatballs until brown. Drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining meatballs.

Place on baking sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes. Cool slightly and serve with marinara.