Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Stuffed with Meatballs
COOK TIME: 1-2 hrs
SERVES: 6-12
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INGREDIENTS
- For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for greasing)
- For the Filling:
- 1 pound Simek’s frozen meatballs (cooked according to package instructions)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish)
- For the Toppings:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Directions
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar.
- Add the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- Cook the Simek’s meatballs according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside to cool slightly.
- Shape the Christmas Tree:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly greased surface.
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about ½ inch thick.
- Cut the dough into triangles, about 4-5 inches wide at the base and 6-8 inches tall. You should have enough triangles to form a tree shape.
- Assemble the Tree:
- Place a cooked meatball at the base of each triangle, then add a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Starting from the base of each triangle, fold the sides over the meatball to form a “wrapped” shape.
- Arrange the stuffed triangles on a baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, with the wider ends at the bottom and the points tapering to the top.
- Add the Finishing Touches:
- Brush the tops of the stuffed triangles with the beaten egg wash to give them a golden color while baking.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and any additional seasonings you like (garlic powder, Italian seasoning, etc.).
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a festive touch.
