Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

There's nothing quite like biting into a tender, flavorful meatball only to discover a gooey, cheesy surprise inside. Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a family favorite that's as impressive as it is easy to make. With a savory meat mixture wrapped around melty mozzarella, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The first time I made these meatballs, I was just experimenting with a new way to elevate our usual spaghetti night. They were an instant hit! Now, this recipe is a staple in our home, often paired with a simple marinara sauce and crusty bread. Let’s dive into what makes these stuffed meatballs a must-try dish.

Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to elevate your meatball game! These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are the perfect combination of comfort food and gourmet flair.

• Quick and Simple: This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you still want something hearty and delicious.
• Cheesy Surprise: Every bite reveals a melty, cheesy core of mozzarella, guaranteed to please both kids and adults.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served with pasta, on a sub roll, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are always a hit.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these meatballs in advance, freeze them, and cook them when needed for ultimate convenience.

Once you make these, you’ll see why they’ve become a family favorite. Let’s explore the ingredients that make them shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs lies in their flavorful ingredients and the creamy mozzarella center. Here’s what you’ll need and why they’re important:

• Ground Meat: A blend of ground beef and pork gives the best flavor and texture. You can use all beef or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Breadcrumbs: These provide structure and keep the meatballs tender. Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor, or plain breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella beautifully.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and parsley are must-haves for a classic Italian flavor profile.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella works best for that gooey center, but you can also use mozzarella string cheese cut into small chunks for convenience.
• Marinara Sauce: A rich tomato sauce ties the dish together, perfect for serving and dipping.

You’ll also need a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a skillet if you choose to brown the meatballs before baking. Now, let’s get started on the fun part—putting it all together!

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Making these meatballs is easier than you might think. Here’s how to create your own cheesy, savory masterpieces:

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound ground beef, ½ pound ground pork, ½ cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, ¼ cup grated Parmesan, and your seasonings (1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and 2 tablespoon chopped parsley). Mix until everything is evenly combined, but don’t overwork the meat.
2. Shape and Stuff
   Take a golf ball-sized portion of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a piece of mozzarella cheese (about 1-inch cube) in the center, then fold the meat around it, rolling it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent leaks. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
3. Cook the Meatballs
   • Option 1: Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes until fully cooked.
   • Option 2: Sear and Bake: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 2 minutes per side), then transfer them to the oven to finish cooking.
4. Serve with Sauce
   While the meatballs cook, warm 2 cups marinara sauce in a saucepan. Once the meatballs are ready, add them to the sauce, ensuring they’re well-coated.

The total cooking time is about 30 minutes, and the result is pure comfort on a plate. Serve these meatballs with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage Options

These meatballs are not only delicious fresh out of the oven but also great for leftovers! Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Place cooked meatballs in an airtight container with some marinara sauce to keep them moist. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Freeze: Arrange the cooked meatballs (without sauce) on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll last for up to 3 months.

To reheat, warm the meatballs in a skillet with a bit of marinara sauce over medium heat until heated through. If frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight first.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are a few ideas:

• Turkey Meatballs: Swap the beef and pork for ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other melty cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or fontina for a twist on the classic.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy variation.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
• Mini Meatballs: Make smaller, bite-sized versions for party appetizers – they’re always a hit!

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. No matter how you tweak it, the cheesy center and tender meat will always impress.

These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet touch. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or just because, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Give them a try and enjoy the delicious, cheesy magic!

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