Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese

Featured in Cozy Comfort Food Classics.

These Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese are a delicious and comforting dinner option. Made with a flavorful blend of ground beef, Italian herbs, and melty mozzarella at the center, they’re baked to golden perfection. Serve them with marinara sauce over pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, these meatballs are perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Freeze uncooked meatballs for future use, and enjoy a cheesy, satisfying dish anytime!
Sarah Recipes
Updated on Wed, 26 Feb 2025 21:24:23 GMT
A plate of meatballs covered in cheese and tomato sauce. Pin it
A plate of meatballs covered in cheese and tomato sauce. | recipesaddicts.com

These Mozzarella Cheese Stuffed Meatballs with their gooey, cheese-stuffed centers are the ultimate dining experience. At the end of the day, you can enjoy the comforting and impressive taste of juicy, seasoned meat and melty mozzarella that stretch from the middle. The food looks absolutely delicious!

When I was searching for recipes that would make a classic meatball go well, I found this recipe and the moment I saw the center of it with molten cheese, they were instant favorites!

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • By combining ground meat with beef and pork, you can create a flavorful base.
  • Fresh mozzarella is the best option for melting, but string cheese is also a suitable substitute in mozzarella recipes.
  • Italian seasoned breadcrumbs are an added flavor enhancer.
  • A touch of fresh herbs adds color and brightness to a flavorful meat mixture.
  • The aroma of finely chopped garlic and onion enhances the flavor of each bite.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

When handling meat mixture, make sure to mix thoroughly to prevent any burns or skin irritation.
In order to place the cheese, position a mozzarella cube center on ice and flatten it.
Wrap meat in cheese and seal it without any gaps where the cheese may have escaped.
The strategy of swishing balls smoothly between dampened hands is to achieve the desired texture, as demonstrated by rolling them gently.
Make sure to leave enough space between meatballs when baking them. (Option 1: Bake for even cooking).
For accurate readings, cook food up to 165°F internal temperature.
After baking, add warm marinara to preserve the crispy texture of the sauce.
A plate of meatballs with cheese on top. Pin it
A plate of meatballs with cheese on top. | recipesaddicts.com

To make perfect meatballs, my Italian grandmother recommended gentle hands and a generous heart -- and this recipe highlights the benefits of both with its meticulous preparation and ample cheese filling.

Perfect Pairings

For a more festive appearance, you can serve these meatballs as appetizers and top them off with toothpicks over spaghetti with extra marinara. Or try the classic way.

A plate of meatballs covered in cheese and tomato sauce. Pin it
A plate of meatballs covered in cheese and tomato sauce. | recipesaddicts.com

These have become more than just a meal after being made numerous times, as they can also enhance my memory. Thank you, Mr. When someone bites into their first stuffed meatball, it's like a dream come true.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well and is a leaner option.
→ Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
→ Can I freeze cooked meatballs?
Yes, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
→ What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella

These Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese are tender, juicy, and bursting with cheesy goodness. Perfect for an easy and satisfying dinner!

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Sarah

Category: Comfort Food

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 6 Servings (6–8 meatballs)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Meatballs

01 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
02 ½ cup breadcrumbs
03 ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 1 large egg
05 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
07 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
09 Salt and black pepper, to taste
10 6–8 small mozzarella balls (or 1 cup mozzarella cut into small cubes)

→ Sauce (Optional)

11 2 cups marinara sauce
12 1 tablespoon olive oil
13 1 teaspoon dried basil or parsley

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, but don’t overmix.

Step 03

Take a small handful of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a mozzarella ball or cube in the center, then wrap the meat mixture around it, rolling it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Step 04

Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown.

Step 05

While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add marinara sauce and dried basil, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Step 06

Serve the meatballs hot, topped with marinara sauce, fresh parsley, and extra Parmesan cheese. Pair with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  1. Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a low-carb option.
  2. Freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.
  3. Add a pinch of nutmeg to the meat mixture for extra depth of flavor.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or cooking spray
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Saucepan (optional)

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese, mozzarella)
  • Contains gluten (breadcrumbs)
  • Contains eggs

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: 25 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 10 g
  • Protein: 25 g