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.
