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.