Name: Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 egg; 1 small onion, diced finely; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley; 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; Pepper, to taste; 4 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/2 inch cubes; 1-2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups marinara sauce

Jump to Recipe

If you love the idea of sinking your teeth into a juicy, flavorful meatball with a gooey surprise inside, then Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are about to become your new favorite dish. This recipe combines rich ground beef seasoned to perfection with melted mozzarella tucked right into the center, creating an irresistible burst of creamy cheese in every bite. It’s comfort food elevated with that melty, cheesy goodness that everyone secretly craves. You’ll love how each meatball holds together perfectly while offering a deliciously cheesy reward once you cut into it. Ready to bring this crowd-pleaser to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each one playing a critical role in building the flavor, texture, and classic appeal of the Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs. From the fresh herbs to the slightly crunchy panko breadcrumbs, every element makes this dish shine.

Ground beef: The hearty base that provides juiciness and richness.
Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs intact.
Small onion, diced finely: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch.
Garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that elevates the taste.
Fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a bright, fresh herbal note.
Panko breadcrumbs: Lightly crunchy crumbs that keep the meatballs tender.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty complexity.
Fresh mozzarella: The star ingredient—the melty cheese center everyone loves.
Olive oil: For browning the meatballs perfectly.
Marinara sauce: A classic, rich tomato sauce to simmer the meatballs in.
Dried basil and oregano: Classic Italian herbs for authentic flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essentials to season and bring out all the flavors.

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Begin by adding the ground beef, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to a large mixing bowl. Mix everything thoroughly but gently, just enough to evenly distribute all those fantastic flavors without overworking the meat, which will keep your meatballs nice and tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Mozzarella Center

Cut the fresh mozzarella into roughly half-inch cubes. This size is perfect for stuffing inside each meatball, ensuring you get that deliciously cheesy core. The mozzarella will melt beautifully during cooking, creating the ooey-gooey effect you want.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Take about two tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place one mozzarella cube in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around the cheese and roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat until you have about 12 meatballs, making sure each has a good amount of cheese inside.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Arrange the meatballs in the pan and brown each side carefully. This step locks in flavor and creates a great texture contrast between the crispy crust and the tender center.

Step 5: Simmer in Sauce

Once browned, pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs in the pan. Reduce the heat, cover, and let them simmer for about 10 minutes. Flip the meatballs halfway through cooking to ensure they’re cooked evenly and that the mozzarella melts perfectly inside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

After simmering, your Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are ready to be served. Whether you’re pairing them with pasta or serving straight from the pan, it’s the perfect moment to enjoy that rich, cheesy center and the flavorful meat wrapped around it.

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dusting of parmesan cheese on top brings a beautiful burst of color and an extra layer of savory flavor. The fresh herbs brighten every bite, while the parmesan adds a salty depth that perfectly complements the tomato sauce and melted cheese.

Side Dishes

These meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic Italian dinner. Alternatively, try them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for a lighter, refreshing balance. Garlic bread or crusty baguettes are fantastic to mop up that luscious marinara sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or casual gathering, stick a toothpick in each Mozzarella Stuffed Meatball and arrange them on a platter with a side of warm marinara for dipping. Or, transform them into hearty sliders by placing meatballs in soft slider buns with a smear of sauce and fresh basil leaves. Either way, they’re sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover meatballs cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld better when resting, making leftovers even tastier!

Freezing

To freeze Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, first freeze them on a baking tray for 1-2 hours until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months and can be cooked straight from frozen by simmering in sauce for a little longer.

Reheating

Reheat the meatballs gently in a skillet with some marinara sauce over low heat, covering them to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. This way, the cheese stays molten, and your meatballs taste just as cozy as fresh.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese besides mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is ideal for its melting qualities and mild flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like provolone or fontina. Just keep in mind that their melting behavior and taste will vary.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?

Make sure you seal the meat around the mozzarella tightly, pressing it well while forming the meatball. Using cold, firm mozzarella cubes also helps minimize leakage during cooking.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?

Yes, baking is a great option for a hands-off approach. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs on a greased baking sheet for about 20 minutes, then finish by simmering them in marinara sauce.

Is it okay to use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Regular breadcrumbs work, but panko breadcrumbs give the meatballs a lighter texture and help retain moisture better. If using regular breadcrumbs, you might want to use slightly less to avoid a denser meatball.

What can I do to make these meatballs more family-friendly for kids?

Kids usually love these as they are! For picky eaters, try using mild marinara or serve the meatballs with a side of plain pasta and some grated cheese on top. You can also sneak in finely grated vegetables into the meat mix for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Making Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs at home is such a joyful experience, especially when you get to bite into that surprise of warm, melted cheese. This recipe is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and fun textures, and it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen for family dinners or special occasions. Give it a try, and get ready to wow everyone at the table with these deliciously cheesy, savory meatballs!

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 6 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 meatballs 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and packed with molten mozzarella cheese in the center. Made with a blend of ground beef, herbs, and cheese, then simmered in a rich marinara sauce, they make a perfect cozy dinner served over pasta or your favorite side dish.

Instructions

Mix the Meatball Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, finely diced onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Prepare the Mozzarella Cubes. Cut the fresh mozzarella cheese into about 1/2 inch cubes, which will be stuffed inside each meatball.
Form and Stuff the Meatballs. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it with your fingers. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then cover the cheese completely with the meat mixture, rolling it into a smooth ball. Repeat to make 12 meatballs.
Brown the Meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on one side carefully. Flip the meatballs and brown the other side, ensuring a nice golden crust without overcooking.
Simmer in Marinara Sauce. Once browned on both sides, pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs in the pan. Cover and let them simmer for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to cook evenly and allow the mozzarella to melt inside.
Serve and Garnish. Serve the meatballs hot over your favorite pasta, then top with additional fresh parsley and parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy stuffed meatballs!

Notes

Use fresh mozzarella for the best melty center.
Make sure to fully enclose the mozzarella to prevent it from leaking out during cooking.
You can use store-bought marinara or homemade sauce for extra flavor.
These meatballs freeze well; freeze before cooking for quick meals later.
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-frying and simmering
Cuisine: Italian