Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

There's nothing more satisfying than a plate of mozzarella-stuffed meatballs oozing with gooey, melted cheese. Perfectly seasoned beef, paired with a luscious cheese center, creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Serve them atop spaghetti or alongside crusty garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please.

I first discovered this recipe when experimenting with ways to elevate traditional meatballs. Stuffing them with mozzarella turned out to be the ultimate game-changer, transforming an ordinary dish into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Ready to make these cheesy delights? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy meatballs. These mozzarella-stuffed wonders are easy to make, utterly delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

First, let’s talk about the cheese factor. Gooey, melted mozzarella tucked inside a juicy meatball makes every bite pure bliss. It’s like a hidden surprise that never fails to wow both kids and adults alike.

Not only are these meatballs packed with flavor, but they’re also incredibly versatile. Serve them with marinara sauce and pasta for a classic Italian feast, or add them to a sub roll for the ultimate meatball sandwich.

And don’t worry if you’re short on time. These meatballs come together in under an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something special on the table.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s look at what you’ll need to get started!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here's what makes each one shine:

• Ground Beef and Pork Blend: This combination ensures your meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. If you prefer, you can use just ground beef or substitute turkey for a leaner option.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) are ideal for stuffing, but you can also cut a mozzarella block into cubes. Make sure the pieces are small enough to fit snugly inside your meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra boost of flavor. If you’re gluten-free, swap them out for almond flour or GF breadcrumbs.
• Egg: Acts as the binder to hold the meatball mixture together.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatic staples bring depth to your meatballs. Finely chop or grate them for even distribution.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, umami-rich kick to the meat mixture.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the flavors and adds a touch of herbaceousness.

Special Equipment: A baking sheet and a skillet are all you need to get these meatballs just right.

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Crafting these cheesy meatballs is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, grated onion, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands until just combined – overmixing can make the meatballs dense.
2. Shape and Stuff the Meatballs
   Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm. Place a piece of mozzarella cheese in the center, then fold the meat around it, ensuring the cheese is completely sealed inside. Roll gently into a ball and repeat with the remaining mixture.
3. Sear the Meatballs
   Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, searing each side until browned. This step locks in the juices and gives the meatballs a beautiful crust.
4. Bake to Perfection
   Transfer the seared meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until fully cooked.
5. Simmer in Marinara Sauce
   While the meatballs bake, warm your favorite marinara sauce in a skillet or pot. Once the meatballs are cooked, gently nestle them into the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. This step infuses them with even more flavor.

Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Storage Options

These mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container with marinara sauce for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce over medium heat until warmed through. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a touch of heat.
• Herby Twist: Swap parsley for fresh basil or oregano for a different herbaceous flavor.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try stuffing the meatballs with cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs to make these meatballs keto-friendly.
• Turkey or Chicken: Replace the beef and pork with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Experimenting with flavors is half the fun, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are the ultimate comfort food with a cheesy surprise at their core. Whether you serve them over pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer, they’re sure to steal the spotlight. Try this recipe once, and you’ll see why it’s destined to become a family favorite!

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