Meatballs a la Pizzaiola

(From Giada at Home)

Ingredients

• Vegetable oil cooking spray
• 2 large shallots, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained (5 or 6)
• 1/3 cup packed fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 1/2 pounds 20-percent fat ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 6 ounces smoked mozzarella, cut into 36 (1/2-inch) cubes (I used regular mozzarella)
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 cups marinara sauce, warmed

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a baking sheet with vegetable oil cooking spray. Set aside.

In a food processor, pulse together the shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, and salt. Process until blended. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add the beef and pork and, using a wooden spoon or clean hands, stir until well combined. Form the mixture into 36 equal-size meatballs (about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter).

Insert 1 cube smoked mozzarella cheese into the center of each meatball and form the meat around it, completely enclosing the cheese.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat half the oil over medium heat. Add half of the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until well browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining oil and meatballs.

Place the browned meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes for medium doneness. Set aside to cool slightly, and serve with warm marinara sauce