Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

There's nothing quite like the joy of biting into a tender, flavorful meatball and discovering a gooey, melted mozzarella center. These Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs bring comfort food to the next level, combining simple ingredients with a little culinary magic.

I first made these meatballs for a cozy family gathering, and they were an instant hit. The cheesy surprise inside makes them fun for kids and adults alike, while the savory flavors make this dish truly irresistible. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!

Why You'll Love This Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for these cheesy, meaty delights. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer or the star of a hearty pasta dinner, these meatballs deliver every time.

First, they’re ridiculously easy to make. With just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have these little flavor bombs ready to bake – perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu guests.

Next, they’re loaded with flavor. The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and parmesan infuses every bite with bold, irresistible taste. Add the molten mozzarella, and you’ve got a winning combination.

Another reason to love them? They’re versatile. Serve them with spaghetti, tuck them into a sub sandwich, or simply enjoy them with a marinara dipping sauce – the possibilities are endless.

And finally, they’re a crowd-pleaser. From picky eaters to gourmet enthusiasts, everyone will be reaching for seconds (and thirds). Trust me, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these meatballs lies in their simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what makes each component shine:

Ground beef is the heart of the recipe. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken.

Mozzarella cheese provides the gooey surprise inside. Use pre-cut mozzarella pearls for convenience, or cube a block of mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.

Breadcrumbs act as the binder, ensuring the meatballs hold together without being dense. Panko breadcrumbs offer a slightly lighter texture, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well.

Eggs help the mixture come together while adding richness.

Parmesan cheese enhances the savory profile with its nutty, salty flavor. Grate it fresh for the best results.

Garlic and Italian seasoning bring bold, aromatic notes that make these meatballs taste like they’ve been simmering all day.

You’ll also need a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a small bowl of water for assembling the meatballs.

How To Make This Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Creating these cheesy meatballs is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the meatballs from sticking and make cleanup a snap.

In a large bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until everything is well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture – this can make the meatballs tough.

Take a small amount of the mixture (about two tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm. Place a piece of mozzarella in the center, then fold the meat around it, rolling it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Arrange the meatballs on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when the mozzarella starts to ooze slightly from the centers.

Serve immediately with marinara sauce, pasta, or crusty bread for dipping. These meatballs are best enjoyed hot, while the cheese is still gooey.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! These meatballs store beautifully and are just as tasty the next day.

For refrigeration, place cooled meatballs in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their delicious texture.

If freezing, arrange the baked meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating tip: If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works, but be careful not to overdo it – you don’t want the cheese to overheat and lose its gooey charm.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Use spicy Italian sausage for a flavor-packed twist.
• Experiment with cheeses – try cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a bold surprise.
• Add chopped spinach or grated zucchini to the mixture for a sneaky veggie boost.
• Coat the meatballs in breadcrumbs before baking for an extra crispy exterior.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Who knows? You might discover a new family favorite variation!

These Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. Give them a try, and watch as they disappear from your table faster than you can say, "Pass the marinara!"

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