Name: Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cups tomato sauce

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There’s something magical about cutting into a perfectly cooked meatball and watching gooey mozzarella stretch from its heart. These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor, making them a dish that turns any dinner into a cozy celebration. The aroma of herbs mingling with tender beef, the golden crust from searing, and the molten cheese center all work together to create a meal worth savoring with every bite.

Behind the Recipe

Growing up, meatballs were always a family favorite. But one day, I decided to sneak in a surprise—a cube of mozzarella tucked inside. When I placed the dish on the table and everyone discovered that melty, cheesy center, I knew I had created something unforgettable. Since then, it’s become a tradition in my kitchen, a little twist that brings wide smiles every time.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Meatballs are found in many cultures, from Italian polpette to Swedish köttbullar. In Italy, they are usually smaller and often enjoyed without spaghetti, served instead as part of a meal with bread or vegetables. The idea of stuffing mozzarella inside leans into the Italian love for cheese while adding an American-style indulgence. This fusion of tradition and creativity makes Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs a truly special dish.

Why You’ll Love Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Versatile: Serve them over pasta, nestle them into a sub roll, or enjoy them with a fresh salad.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and cheese create a filling and satisfying dish.

Quick and Easy: With a little prep, these meatballs come together in under an hour.

Customizable: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats to suit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: The cheesy surprise inside always gets a cheer at family dinners and gatherings.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them earlier in the day, then bake or simmer when it’s time to serve.

Great for Leftovers: They reheat beautifully and can even be repurposed into sandwiches or casseroles.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To make these meatballs irresistible, keep these insider tricks in mind:

Keep your mozzarella cold so it doesn’t melt before the meatballs cook through.
Don’t overmix the meat—a light hand keeps them tender, not tough.
Sear before baking or simmering for a golden crust that locks in flavor.
Use fresh herbs when possible, as they elevate the aroma and taste.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before starting, gather your essentials to make cooking smooth and fun:

Mixing Bowls: For combining meat, seasonings, and breadcrumbs.
Baking Sheet or Skillet: Depending on whether you’re baking or pan-frying.
Tongs: For turning meatballs gently without breaking them.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision makes a difference in balance.
Cheese Grater: If using block mozzarella for fresher flavor.

Ingredients in Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Every ingredient plays its part in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef: 1 pound, provides the hearty base and rich flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: 8 ounces, cut into cubes for that gooey, melty surprise.
Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, helps bind the meatballs and adds texture.
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup grated, adds savory depth.
Egg: 1 large, binds everything together.
Garlic: 3 cloves minced, brings bold aromatic flavor.
Onion: ½ cup finely chopped, adds moisture and sweetness.
Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped, for freshness.
Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon, balances flavors with herbs.
Salt: 1 teaspoon, enhances taste.
Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, for subtle heat.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for searing.
Tomato Sauce: 3 cups, for simmering and serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Cooking is flexible, so here are some swaps if needed:

Ground Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork.
Mozzarella Cheese: Try provolone or fontina for a different melt.
Breadcrumbs: Substitute with panko, crushed crackers, or almond flour for low-carb.
Parsley: Swap with basil or oregano for a new herbal twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Mozzarella Cheese: Known for its creamy melt and stretch, it turns a simple meatball into something indulgent.

Ground Beef: Its richness and juiciness form the backbone of this dish, making every bite satisfying.

Instructions for Making Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Cooking these meatballs is a joyful process, from mixing the ingredients to that first cheesy bite. Here’s how to do it:

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking. If simmering, prepare a skillet with olive oil.
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly oil a baking sheet if baking, or heat olive oil in a skillet for searing.
Assemble the Dish: Scoop some meat mixture, press a cube of mozzarella into the center, and roll into a ball ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
Cook to Perfection: Sear meatballs in a skillet until browned on all sides, then transfer to oven or simmer in tomato sauce for 20–25 minutes until cooked through.
Finishing Touches: Spoon extra tomato sauce over meatballs and sprinkle with Parmesan or parsley.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with pasta, crusty bread, or as the star of a sub sandwich.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic lies in contrasts: the crispy, golden crust meets tender, juicy beef inside, while the molten mozzarella oozes into the savory tomato sauce. Every bite brings balance between rich, creamy cheese and the bright tang of herbs and sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a cookie scoop to keep meatballs uniform in size.
Chill stuffed meatballs for 10 minutes before cooking to help them hold shape.
Don’t overcrowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of brown.

What to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can stumble here, so watch out for these:

Overstuffing with cheese, which may leak out while cooking.
Skipping the sear, which means less flavor and texture.
Using low-quality mozzarella that won’t melt properly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: ~320

Note These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can shape and stuff the meatballs ahead of time, refrigerating until ready to cook. Once cooked, they keep in the fridge for 3–4 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm gently in sauce to keep them moist.

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

These meatballs are stunning over spaghetti, but they shine just as well in a toasted sub roll with melted cheese or as a party appetizer with toothpicks. Pair with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Slice leftover meatballs and layer them onto pizza.
Chop them into an omelet for a hearty breakfast.
Add them to a baked ziti or lasagna for extra richness.

Additional Tips

Freshly grated Parmesan always elevates flavor. If you want extra moisture, mix a splash of milk into the meat mixture. And remember, letting the meatballs rest a few minutes after cooking keeps them juicy.

Make It a Showstopper

For a presentation that wows, serve in a cast-iron skillet with bubbling tomato sauce, scatter fresh basil on top, and let that melted mozzarella peek through.

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
Herb-Heavy: Double the fresh parsley and add basil.
Cheese Lovers: Mix Parmesan and mozzarella inside for a double-cheese surprise.
Mini Meatballs: Make bite-sized versions perfect for parties.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?

Yes, but cubes from fresh mozzarella melt better.

2. Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely, just swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free crumbs.

3. Do I need to sear before baking?

It’s not required, but it adds flavor and texture.

4. Can I freeze uncooked meatballs?

Yes, freeze them on a tray first, then transfer to a bag for storage.

5. How do I prevent cheese from leaking out?

Seal the meat mixture tightly around the mozzarella.

6. Can I cook them fully on the stovetop?

Yes, simmer gently in sauce until cooked through.

7. What pasta pairs best?

Spaghetti or rigatoni work beautifully with the sauce.

8. Can I use ground chicken?

Yes, but add extra breadcrumbs to prevent dryness.

9. How do I know they’re cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is safe.

10. Can I make them without tomato sauce?

Yes, serve them with a cream sauce or even on their own.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs bring comfort, fun, and flavor to any table. From the crispy crust to the molten cheese inside, they’re a dish that delights every time. Trust me, you’re going to love this recipe—it’s one of those meals that’s worth every single bite.