Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a delicious combination of tender, flavorful beef and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a savory appetizer or a comforting Italian dinner, they’re sure to satisfy. Serve them with marinara sauce over spaghetti, or enjoy them on their own as a finger food for your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are packed with flavor and melt-in-your-mouth cheese, offering a comforting bite every time. The meatballs are perfectly seasoned with garlic, onion, and Italian spices, and the addition of mozzarella in the center makes every bite even more irresistible. The quick broiling method ensures they’re cooked to perfection without overcooking the cheese inside. Paired with marinara sauce, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, they make for a delightful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as part of a main meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (85-90% lean)

• 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 large egg

• 3-5 tablespoons water

• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2 inch cubes

• 3 cups store-bought marinara sauce, warmed

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• Cooking spray

• Fresh basil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the broiler.

2. Line a baking pan with foil and spray the foil with cooking spray.

3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, egg, breadcrumbs, and water. Mix until well combined and smooth. Add a few more tablespoons of water if needed.

4. Take 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture, roll it into a ball, and flatten it slightly. Add a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then cover the cheese with meat and roll it into a ball, ensuring that the cheese is completely sealed inside.

5. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and spray them lightly with cooking spray.

6. Broil the meatballs for 10 minutes or until they are just done. Be careful not to overcook them, as the cheese may begin to ooze out.

7. While the meatballs are cooking, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan.

8. Once the meatballs are ready, transfer them to a serving bowl. Add the warmed marinara sauce, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and basil.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.

• Different Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour to make the meatballs gluten-free.

• Add Veggies: Add finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meatball mixture for added nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or heat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. You can also reheat them in a saucepan with marinara sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different. You may need to adjust the seasoning slightly.

2. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the meatballs ahead of time, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before broiling them. You can also freeze them before or after cooking for later use.

3. How can I ensure the cheese stays inside the meatball?

Be sure to seal the cheese completely inside the meat mixture when forming the meatballs. If you’re concerned, you can double-check for any cracks and pinch them shut before broiling.

4. Can I bake the meatballs instead of broiling them?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through. Just be sure to check that the cheese inside has melted.

5. How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out while broiling?

To prevent cheese from oozing out, make sure the meatball is tightly sealed around the cheese and avoid overcooking the meatballs.

6. Can I make these meatballs in advance and freeze them?

Yes, you can freeze the meatballs both before and after cooking. If freezing before cooking, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. You can cook them directly from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the broiling time.

7. What marinara sauce should I use for these meatballs?

You can use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own. A simple homemade sauce with tomatoes, garlic, and basil works wonderfully with these meatballs.

8. How can I serve these meatballs?

These meatballs are great as an appetizer, served on their own with toothpicks, or served over spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a hearty meal.

9. Can I use other herbs in place of Italian seasoning?

Yes, you can use a combination of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary if you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand.

10. How can I make these meatballs spicy?

To add some spice, you can mix in red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers into the meatball mixture.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or as part of a full Italian meal, they’re sure to impress with their tender meat, gooey cheese, and flavorful seasonings. Quick to prepare and packed with savory goodness, these meatballs will become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

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