Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

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Introduction

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs take the classic Italian meatball to the next level by hiding a gooey, cheesy surprise inside every bite. The savory combination of beef, pork, and a blend of seasonings creates a flavorful foundation, while the melty mozzarella adds a rich, creamy center that melts perfectly in your mouth.

I’ll never forget the first time I made these for a family dinner. As I cut into the meatball, the cheese oozed out, and everyone was amazed by the deliciousness inside. These meatballs are so versatile, too! You can serve them on a bed of pasta, in a warm sub sandwich, or simply enjoy them on their own with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

What makes these meatballs extra special is how easy they are to prepare while still delivering a dish that feels indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a comforting meal, these mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are sure to steal the spotlight and leave everyone wanting more.

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Meal prepping
  • Pasta dishes
  • Party appetizers
  • Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Here’s why Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs will become your new favorite recipe:

  • Cheesy Center: The mozzarella stuffed inside each meatball provides a rich, gooey surprise that takes the meatball experience to the next level.
  • Tender and Juicy: The mixture of beef and pork, combined with breadcrumbs and egg, ensures each meatball is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
  • Classic Comfort Food: With the familiar taste of meatballs, marinara, and cheese, these are comfort food at its finest.
  • Versatile: These meatballs can be served in various ways—on pasta, in sandwiches, or as an appetizer—making them a flexible meal option.
  • Easy to Make: Despite the stuffed cheese center, these meatballs are simple to prepare and bake, making them a great weeknight meal or special occasion treat.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Servings: 12 meatballs
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
  • ½ lb ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Beef and Pork: A combination of beef and pork ensures the meatballs are flavorful, tender, and juicy.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is perfect for stuffing these meatballs, as it melts beautifully and adds a creamy, gooey surprise.
  • Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs provide structure and help the meatballs stay moist and tender.
  • Italian Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning infuse the meatballs with classic Italian flavors.
  • Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a hint of fresh flavor to the meatballs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs:

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
  2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.
  3. Form the Meatballs: Take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it into a disc in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and carefully fold the edges of the meat around the cheese, sealing it in completely. Roll the mixture into a ball, making sure the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Cook the Meatballs:

  1. Brown the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are browned on all sides. This step adds flavor and ensures the meatballs will hold their shape during baking.
  2. Bake the Meatballs: Transfer the browned meatballs to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you like, you can spoon a little marinara sauce over the meatballs before baking.
  3. Cool and Serve: Let the meatballs cool for a few minutes before serving. The mozzarella inside will be hot, so be careful when cutting or biting into them.

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs can be served in various ways:

  • On Pasta: Serve the meatballs over your favorite pasta and top with marinara sauce for a hearty, satisfying meal.
  • In a Sub Sandwich: Place the meatballs on a sub roll, add marinara sauce, and top with grated Parmesan for a delicious meatball sub.
  • As an Appetizer: Serve the meatballs on their own with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, perfect for party appetizers.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair the meatballs with a side of garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
  • With Salad: For a lighter option, serve the meatballs with a fresh green salad and a drizzle of olive oil.

Additional Tips for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Here are some tips to ensure your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are perfect every time:

  • Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and creates a deliciously gooey center. Avoid using pre-shredded mozzarella, as it doesn’t melt the same.
  • Don’t Overmix the Meat: Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs.
  • Sear the Meatballs Before Baking: Browning the meatballs in the skillet before baking adds extra flavor and helps the meatballs hold together better.
  • Check the Internal Temperature: To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Add Extra Flavor to the Sauce: If using marinara sauce, you can enhance it by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, some fresh basil, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
  • Freeze the Meatballs: You can freeze the uncooked meatballs before or after baking. To freeze, place the meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Recipe Variations for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Here are 10 variations you can try for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs:

  • Beef and Chicken Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Use ground chicken in place of pork for a lighter version.
  • Turkey Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: For a leaner alternative, try using ground turkey in place of beef and pork.
  • Spicy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Vegetarian Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Use a plant-based meat substitute like Beyond Meat or a mixture of lentils and mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
  • Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Add a tablespoon of basil pesto to the meat mixture for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
  • Ricotta and Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Mix ricotta cheese with the mozzarella for an extra creamy filling.
  • BBQ Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of baking for a smoky, tangy flavor.
  • Italian Sausage Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Use Italian sausage (mild or spicy) in place of ground beef for an added depth of flavor.
  • Cheddar Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Swap the mozzarella for cheddar cheese for a sharper, more robust filling.
  • Eggplant Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Add finely chopped, roasted eggplant to the meat mixture for a unique, Mediterranean twist.

Freezing and Storage for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

  • Freezing: These meatballs freeze well. Place uncooked or cooked meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time if needed.
  • Storage: Store leftover cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs easier:

  • Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even browning of the meatballs.
  • Baking Sheet: A lined or greased baking sheet is essential for baking the meatballs.
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups: For precise measurements of seasonings and ingredients.
  • Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the meatballs to ensure they are fully cooked.
  • Cookie Scoop: A cookie

scoop helps form uniform meatballs for consistent cooking.

  • Tongs: Use tongs to turn the meatballs gently in the skillet to avoid breaking them.

Frequently Asked Questions for Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

  1. Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of cubes?
    Yes, but cubed mozzarella creates a gooier filling that is easier to seal inside the meatballs.
  2. Can I bake these meatballs without browning them first?
    Yes, but browning them adds flavor and helps them hold together better. If you skip this step, just bake them for a slightly longer time.
  3. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the meatballs up to a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.
  4. Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the pork and beef?
    Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner alternative.
  5. What can I serve with these meatballs?
    These meatballs pair well with pasta, garlic bread, salads, or even served on a sandwich.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs take comfort food to a whole new level by hiding a gooey, cheesy center inside each juicy, flavorful meatball. The combination of perfectly seasoned meat and melty mozzarella creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite. Whether served with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress your family and guests.

They’re quick to make, easy to customize to your taste, and always a crowd-pleaser. Add your favorite marinara sauce or serve them with a side of garlic bread for the ultimate indulgence. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a party spread, Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs will never disappoint.

I’d love to see how your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!