Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

There's nothing quite like biting into a juicy, tender meatball only to discover a melty, gooey mozzarella center. These easy mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to party appetizers.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe when experimenting with ways to elevate classic meatballs, and it’s become a family favorite. The combination of Italian herbs, savory beef, and creamy cheese makes every bite unforgettable. Let me show you how easy it is to make these little pockets of joy.

Why You'll Love This Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to meatball recipe. These mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are as easy to make as they are delicious.

First, they’re surprisingly quick to prepare. In just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a batch of meatballs that taste like they came straight out of a gourmet Italian kitchen.

The melty mozzarella center is a game-changer. Each bite delivers a satisfying burst of cheese, making them irresistible to both kids and adults.

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Serve them with pasta for a comforting meal, pair them with a marinara dipping sauce for appetizers, or tuck them into a sandwich roll for a next-level sub.

Lastly, the ingredients are simple and budget-friendly. You probably have most of what you need already in your pantry, and it’s easy to customize based on your preferences.

So, whether you're feeding a hungry family or impressing guests, these meatballs will become a new favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these mozzarella-stuffed meatballs lies in their blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element is chosen to enhance the texture and taste, making these meatballs truly irresistible.

Ground beef: For the best flavor, opt for ground beef with a moderate fat content, such as 80/20. The fat helps keep the meatballs tender and juicy while cooking.

Mozzarella cheese: Use fresh mozzarella cut into small cubes for the creamiest, meltiest centers. Pre-shredded mozzarella can work in a pinch, but fresh offers the best texture and flavor.

Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add both flavor and structure to the meatballs. If you only have plain breadcrumbs, mix in a pinch of Italian seasoning for a similar effect.

Parmesan cheese: A little grated Parmesan goes a long way in adding a nutty, savory depth to the meatball mixture.

Eggs: These act as the binding agent, holding everything together as the meatballs cook.

Seasonings: A mix of garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs infuses the meatballs with plenty of flavor.

For this recipe, you’ll also need a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and parchment paper to ensure the meatballs cook evenly without sticking.

How To Make This Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Creating these mozzarella-stuffed meatballs is simpler than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have perfect results every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the meatballs won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and seasonings. Use your hands to mix everything gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so aim for a cohesive but not overly compact mixture.

Cut your mozzarella cheese into small cubes, about ½ inch in size. These will form the gooey centers of the meatballs.

Scoop a portion of the meat mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then gently wrap the meat mixture around it, rolling it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining meat and cheese.

Place the prepared meatballs onto the lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart so they cook evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese inside is melted.

For an extra flavor boost, serve these meatballs with warm marinara sauce. The rich tomato flavors pair beautifully with the savory meat and creamy cheese.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), these meatballs store wonderfully. Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious.

For short-term storage, place the cooked meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave, ensuring the cheese remains melty.

To freeze, arrange the cooked and cooled meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

When reheating from frozen, bake the meatballs in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This method helps preserve their texture and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize it to your liking:

• Meat choices: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also use a blend of beef, pork, and veal for a more traditional Italian flavor.
• Cheese filling: Experiment with other cheeses, like cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack, for a unique twist.
• Gluten-free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a hint of heat.
• Herb-forward: Mix in fresh chopped parsley or basil to brighten the flavor profile.

No matter how you tweak the recipe, these mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are sure to impress. Give them a try and see how quickly they disappear from your table!

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