If you’re craving a comforting and flavor-packed dish that will impress everyone at your table, this Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe is a total winner. Imagine juicy, tender meatballs bursting with gooey mozzarella in the center, then topped with a blanket of melted cheddar cheese—every bite bringing together rich, savory, and cheesy goodness. This recipe balances simple ingredients with thoughtful seasoning to create a dish that feels both familiar and a bit special. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting friends, these meatballs are sure to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward ingredients is the first step to building these irresistible meatballs. Each one plays a vital role in flavor, texture, or that beautiful golden finish you’ll see at the end.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty backbone providing rich flavor and juiciness.
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional): Adds extra moistness and depth to the meat mixture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For melting over the top, giving a sharp and creamy topping.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese cubes: Hidden treasures inside each meatball that ooze out warm, melty goodness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps keep the meatballs tender and binds the mixture nicely.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural glue, holding everything together.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a gentle aromatic kick for savory depth.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts umami flavor, making every bite more complex.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a hint of freshness and color in the mix.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces subtle tanginess and savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a mild sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a smoky warmth balancing the richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to highlight all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A final flourish to brighten and decorate your dish.
How to Make Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or applying a light coat of oil to prevent sticking. This simple setup ensures your meatballs cook evenly and come off the tray effortlessly.
Step 2: Combine the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Use your hands or a spoon to gently combine everything, careful not to overwork the meat. This relaxed mixing helps keep the meatballs tender once baked.
Step 3: Form the Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs
Take approximately two tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Nestle a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around it, sealing tightly to encase the cheese. Roll it gently into a smooth, uniform ball. Repeat this process with all the mixture to create your cheese-stuffed meatballs.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Arrange your meatballs on the baking sheet, spacing them so they can cook evenly without touching. Bake for 15-18 minutes, watching for perfectly cooked centers and melted mozzarella starting to shine inside. This step is where the magic happens, infusing the meatballs with rich cheese-filled warmth.
Step 5: Add the Cheddar Cheese Topping
After baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar over each meatball. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes. The cheddar melts into a bubbly, golden topping that adds another layer of indulgence to this already impressive dish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the meatballs rest for a moment, then garnish with fresh parsley if you like a pop of green. Serve warm, ideally with sides that complement their rich, savory flavor and satisfy hungry appetites.
How to Serve Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few torn basil leaves works beautifully to brighten the dish and add fresh color. You can also drizzle a little olive oil or a splash of balsamic glaze for a touch of sophistication.
Side Dishes
These meatballs shine alongside garlic butter pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For an extra cozy meal, serve with crusty bread to mop up the melted cheese and meat juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress guests by serving these meatballs on skewers with roasted veggies or lay them atop a bed of creamy polenta. For casual gatherings, pop them into sliders or stuff them into hoagie rolls with a bit of marinara sauce for irresistible sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cheese-stuffed meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy, ready-to-go meal when time is tight.
Freezing
If you want to save them longer, freeze the cooked meatballs on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months, perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat your meatballs gently in a microwave or oven until warmed through. To maintain the cheesy goodness, cover them with foil if using the oven and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use all beef instead of mixing beef and pork?
Absolutely! Using all ground beef works just fine and still delivers great flavor. Pork just adds a touch more moisture and richness, but feel free to customize based on your preference.
What kind of cheese is best for stuffing the meatballs?
Mozzarella cubes are ideal for stuffing because they melt perfectly, creating that luscious cheese pull. You can experiment with other melty cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack if you want a twist.
Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?
Breadcrumbs help with texture and binding, but if you’re avoiding gluten or want a low-carb version, you can substitute with crushed pork rinds or oats. Just keep an eye on the moisture level for a tender result.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?
Make sure to seal the meat tightly around the cheese cube, completely enclosing it. Smoothing out any cracks will help keep the cheese inside until the meatball is cut or bitten into.
Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time before baking?
Yes! You can assemble the meatballs and store them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and melted cheese experience.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe is a total showstopper that’s way easier to make than you might think. It combines simple ingredients to create a dish that feels cozy, indulgent, and bursting with flavor. Trust me, once you try these tender, cheesy meatballs, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. Give it a go and enjoy every melty, savory bite!
Print
Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 16 meatballs)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These cheese-stuffed meatballs are a delicious blend of ground beef and pork, filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and topped with melted cheddar. Baked to perfection with a flavorful mix of seasonings and herbs, they make a perfect appetizer or main dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Cheese Stuffing and Topping
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese cubes (for stuffing)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
- Form the Meatballs: Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then carefully fold the meat around the cheese to seal it completely. Roll it gently into a smooth ball. Repeat until all meat is used.
- Bake the Meatballs: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until cooked through and cheese inside is melted.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each meatball. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheddar melts and becomes bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a delicious cheesy meatball treat.
Notes
- You can omit the ground pork for a pure beef version, but pork adds extra flavor and moisture.
- Ensure the cheese cubes are well sealed inside the meat to prevent leaking during baking.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture or substitute with panko crumbs for a lighter bite.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the meat mixture.
- These meatballs pair well with marinara sauce or a side of pasta for a hearty meal.
