Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are a savory and indulgent twist on a classic dish, combining the rich flavors of seasoned ground meat with a gooey, melted cheese center that oozes out with every bite. These meatballs are the perfect balance of tender meat and creamy, melty cheese, making them a guaranteed hit at any meal or gathering. Whether served in a marinara sauce, on a sub roll, or simply on their own as an appetizer, Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are a delicious treat that everyone will love.

The combination of the flavorful, seasoned meat exterior and the molten cheese inside makes these meatballs stand out from the crowd. They’re perfect for dinner, but they can also make an excellent appetizer for parties, game day, or holiday gatherings. Plus, they’re simple to make and can be customized with your favorite cheese and seasoning combinations.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making these delectable meatballs, offer some tips for achieving the perfect texture, and share some fun variations that you can try to make this dish your own.

Why You’ll Love Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

• Savory and Gooey: The cheese filling inside these meatballs adds a rich, gooey surprise that perfectly complements the juicy, well-seasoned meat. Every bite is a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are versatile enough to be served as a main course, appetizer, or snack. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a comforting meal, these meatballs will fit the bill.
• Customizable: You can use any cheese that melts well and suits your taste. Mozzarella is a classic choice, but you can experiment with cheddar, provolone, or even cream cheese for a different twist.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the fun, cheesy surprise inside the meatballs, making them a great choice for picky eaters. Serve them with spaghetti, on sliders, or with a side of vegetables for a family-friendly meal.
• Easy to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, these Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are easy to prepare. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to make these delicious treats, making them perfect for beginner cooks.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (approximately 12-16 meatballs)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 6-8g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean is recommended for juiciness)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Olive oil for cooking (optional, if pan-frying)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by placing the ground beef in a large mixing bowl. Add the breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to combine all the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed. Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Once the mixture is well combined, divide it into even portions. Depending on the size you prefer, you should be able to make 12 to 16 meatballs from this mixture.

2. Stuff the Meatballs with Cheese

Take each portion of meat and flatten it out in the palm of your hand. Place about 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese (or your preferred cheese) in the center of the flattened meat. Carefully fold the edges of the meat around the cheese and gently roll it into a ball shape, sealing the cheese inside. Repeat this process until all of the meatballs are stuffed with cheese.

Be sure to seal the meatballs well to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking. If necessary, pinch the edges tightly to secure the cheese inside.

3. Cook the Meatballs

There are two main methods for cooking these cheese-stuffed meatballs: baking or pan-frying. You can choose whichever method suits you best.

• Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned on the outside and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked meatballs.
• Pan-Frying: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook the meatballs for 3-4 minutes per side, turning gently with tongs or a spoon until all sides are browned. Once they’re golden brown, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted.

For both methods, make sure to check the meatballs with a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Serve the Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

Once the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted, remove them from the oven or skillet. Let them rest for a few minutes to allow the cheese to set before serving.

Serve the cheese-stuffed meatballs on their own as an appetizer or alongside your favorite pasta dish. You can drizzle them with marinara sauce or a creamy alfredo sauce, or enjoy them plain with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley.

For a fun twist, serve the meatballs on mini sub rolls, creating a delicious cheese-stuffed meatball sandwich. Pair them with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

5. Garnish and Enjoy

Top the meatballs with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. These cheese-stuffed meatballs are sure to be the star of the meal, offering a satisfying combination of juicy meat, melty cheese, and aromatic seasonings.

Tips for Perfect Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

• Use a Mix of Ground Meat: While this recipe uses ground beef, you can mix in ground pork or turkey for a different flavor profile. A blend of ground beef and pork will give you a juicier meatball.
• Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture. Over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Choose the Right Cheese: Mozzarella is the most common cheese used for stuffing meatballs because of its melting qualities. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even cream cheese for a richer, creamier filling.
• Make Mini Meatballs: If you’re serving these as appetizers or snacks, you can make mini meatballs instead of larger ones. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the cheese to set and reduces the chances of it leaking out when you cut into the meatballs.

Variations of Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

• Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Add some heat to your meatballs by mixing in a few chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meatball mixture. You can also use a spicy cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Herb-Infused Meatballs: Enhance the flavor of the meatballs by adding finely chopped fresh herbs such as basil, rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the meat mixture. These will add freshness and a fragrant aroma to the meatballs.
• Cheese-Stuffed Turkey Meatballs: For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Turkey meatballs pair beautifully with a cheese filling, offering a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Marinara: For a classic approach, serve the cheese-stuffed meatballs with homemade marinara sauce. Simply simmer the cooked meatballs in the sauce for a few minutes before serving for extra flavor.
• Cheese-Stuffed Meatball Subs: For a hearty meal, place the cooked meatballs in a sub roll, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese. Toast the sandwich in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts and the bread is crispy.

Storage and Shelf Life

Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later use:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked cheese-stuffed meatballs for up to 3 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Uncooked Meatballs: If you want to prepare these in advance, you can freeze the uncooked cheese-stuffed meatballs. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

• Spaghetti: The classic pairing! Serve your cheese-stuffed meatballs on top of a bowl of spaghetti, drizzling with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Garlic Bread: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to cheese-stuffed meatballs, especially when served with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Salad: A light, fresh salad with greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette makes a great contrast to the richness of the meatballs.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add a healthy and flavorful side to your meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are another delicious side that pairs wonderfully with the savory cheese-filled meatballs.

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Conclusion

Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are a perfect combination of juicy, flavorful meat and gooey cheese. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, on a sub roll, or alongside a bowl of pasta, they’re sure to be a hit at your next meal. With easy-to-follow instructions and tips for success, this recipe will help you create mouthwatering meatballs that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy these cheesy, savory treats—they’re sure to become a family favorite!