Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These meatballs offer the classic comforting taste of homemade meatballs with an exciting cheesy twist inside. The melted cheese creates a rich, creamy center that complements the savory meat perfectly. Easy to make and versatile, they can be baked, fried, or simmered in sauce and pair well with pasta, sandwiches, or as finger food at parties.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 large egg
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1/4 cup milk
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
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Olive oil for cooking (if pan-frying)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, milk, salt, and pepper.
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Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing for tender meatballs.
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Form the Meatballs:
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Take about 2 tablespoons of meat mixture and flatten into your palm.
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Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center.
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Fold the meat around the cheese and roll into a ball, sealing the cheese inside.
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Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese cubes.
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Cook the Meatballs:
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Pan-fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and browned.
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Simmer in Sauce: Brown meatballs in a skillet, then transfer to a simmering marinara sauce and cook for 15-20 minutes.
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Serve:
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Serve hot as an appetizer, over pasta, or in sub sandwiches.
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Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 15-20 minutes
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Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
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Cheese Options: Use cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone for different flavors.
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Herbs: Add basil, oregano, or thyme for extra flavor.
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Spicy: Mix in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick.
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Sauce Ideas: Serve with marinara, BBQ sauce, or creamy mushroom sauce.
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Meat Mix: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet, oven, or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
For best melting and stuffing, use cubed fresh cheese rather than shredded.
How do I prevent cheese from leaking?
Make sure to seal the meat tightly around the cheese and avoid overfilling.
Can I bake frozen meatballs?
Yes, bake frozen meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
What size should the meatballs be?
About 1.5 inches in diameter works well for even cooking and a good cheese center.
Can I make meatballs without breadcrumbs?
Use crushed crackers or oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
Are these meatballs suitable for kids?
Yes, kids love the cheesy surprise inside!
How do I keep meatballs moist?
Avoid overmixing and don’t overcook to maintain juiciness.
Can I prepare meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate meatballs for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I cook meatballs in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown meatballs first then cook in sauce on low for 4-6 hours.
Can I use pre-made meatballs and add cheese?
It’s best to stuff cheese inside the meatballs for the melty surprise.
Conclusion
Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are a deliciously comforting dish that combines savory meat with a luscious melted cheese center. Easy to prepare and versatile, they make a perfect appetizer, main course, or party snack. With juicy meat and gooey cheese in every bite, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite.
Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are juicy, flavorful meatballs with a melted cheese center that delivers a delicious surprise in every bite. Perfect as appetizers, party snacks, or a comforting main dish, these meatballs combine savory ground meat with herbs and spices, wrapped around creamy mozzarella cheese. Easy to make and versatile, they can be baked, fried, or simmered in sauce for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or beef
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 large egg
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1/4 cup milk
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
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Olive oil for cooking (if pan-frying)
Instructions
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Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep meatballs tender. -
Form the Meatballs:
Flatten about 2 tablespoons of meat mixture in your palm. Place a mozzarella cube in the center. Fold meat around cheese and roll into a ball, sealing the cheese inside. Repeat for remaining mixture. -
Cook the Meatballs:
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Pan-fry: Heat olive oil over medium heat and cook meatballs, turning to brown all sides, about 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on parchment-lined baking sheet and bake 15-20 minutes until cooked and browned.
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Simmer in Sauce: Brown meatballs in a skillet, then transfer to simmering marinara sauce. Cook 15-20 minutes.
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Serve:
Serve hot as appetizers, over pasta, or in sandwiches.
Notes
Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavors.Add fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the mix.Spice it up with red pepper flakes or jalapeños.Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
