Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese are the perfect mix of juicy ground meat and gooey, melted cheese hidden right in the middle. These meatballs have a crispy outside and a soft, cheesy center that makes every bite a little surprise. It’s a fun twist on regular meatballs that adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
I love making these when I want something a bit special but still super easy. What I really enjoy is how the mozzarella melts inside, creating a stringy, cheesy center that’s so satisfying. It’s a small detail that turns a simple meatball into something everyone can’t stop talking about. Plus, kids and adults alike adore discovering the cheese inside!
My favorite way to serve them is with a simple tomato sauce and a side of spaghetti or even on a toasted sandwich bun for a quick and tasty meal. Sometimes I like to add a little sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top just to brighten the flavors. These meatballs always bring a feeling of comfort and warmth to the table, and I’m sure you’ll love them just as much as I do.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef (or beef and pork mix): Using a mix adds more flavor and juiciness, but 100% beef works great too. For a lighter option, ground turkey can be used, though it’s less fatty so add a little olive oil for moisture.
Breadcrumbs: They help keep the meatballs tender. If gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. I sometimes use panko for a lighter texture.
Mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts well and has mild flavor, but you can also use string cheese sticks – they’re easy to cut into cubes. For a twist, try provolone or mild cheddar.
Marinara sauce: Store-bought works fine, but homemade sauce adds fresh flavor. You can swap for any tomato-based pasta sauce or even a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
How Do You Keep the Cheese from Leaking Out While Cooking?
Wrapping the cheese well with meat is key to no leaks. Here’s how I do it:
- Flatten the meat mixture in your palm, place the mozzarella cube in the center, then gently gather the edges around the cheese.
- Press the meat firmly to seal and roll it into a smooth ball without cracks.
- Don’t overfill with cheese; a small cube melts perfectly without bursting out.
- Cooking the meatballs carefully helps – brown them on all sides to form a crust before simmering in sauce.
- Simmer covered, not boiling hard, to keep the cheese inside soft and melty without breaking through.
By following these tips, your meatballs will have a gooey cheesy center that stays put and delights every bite!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining meat and seasonings gently without overworking the mixture.
- Cast-iron or nonstick skillet – great for browning meatballs evenly and holding heat well during simmering.
- Tongs or spatula – helps turn meatballs carefully without breaking their shape and keeps the cheese sealed inside.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts to get the right texture and flavor.
- Sharp knife – to cut the mozzarella into small cubes easily and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meatball that still tastes great with melted cheese.
- Add Italian sausage instead of or with ground beef for a spicier, more flavorful twist.
- Mix in chopped spinach or finely grated zucchini for extra veggies that keep meatballs moist.
- Try different cheeses like provolone or fontina inside if you want a stronger or nuttier cheese flavor.
Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Filling and Sauce:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- Olive oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and form the meatballs, 8 minutes for browning, plus 15-20 minutes simmering in sauce. In total, expect around 40-45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and oregano. Gently mix together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape and Stuff the Meatballs:
Take a small handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place one mozzarella cube in the center, then carefully shape the meat around the cheese, forming a ball and sealing the cheese completely inside. Repeat with the rest of the mixture and cheese cubes.
3. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully in batches without crowding. Cook, turning gently, until evenly browned on all sides (about 6-8 minutes). The meatballs don’t need to be fully cooked at this point.
4. Simmer in Sauce:
Pour marinara sauce over the browned meatballs in the skillet. Cover and let simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the mozzarella inside has melted.
5. Optional Cheese Topping and Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the meatballs during the last 5 minutes of cooking to create a melty cheese topping. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious, cheesy stuffed meatballs hot with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs for This Recipe?
It’s best to make these meatballs fresh to keep the mozzarella nicely melted inside. If you want to freeze them, shape and stuff the meatballs first, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag. Thaw completely in the fridge before cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
Mozzarella is ideal for its meltiness, but you can use provolone, fontina, or even mild cheddar cubes for a different flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts well to keep that gooey center.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with some extra sauce or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and stuff the meatballs, then refrigerate or freeze them before cooking. When ready, cook straight from the fridge or thaw if frozen, then proceed with browning and simmering in sauce.
