Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs

Imagine cutting into a perfectly seasoned meatball, only to discover a warm, gooey center of melted mozzarella cheese. These Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the rich flavors of ground beef and pork with a delightful burst of cheesy goodness. Paired with a robust marinara sauce, each bite is a cozy blend of savory and creamy textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds. These meatballs are perfect for a hearty family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Baked to perfection in the oven, they are both easy to make and full of Italian-inspired flavors. Serve them over pasta for a classic pairing, or enjoy them on their own with some crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce. No matter how you serve them, these meatballs promise to be a hit at the dinner table.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 2 cups marinara sauce

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, eggs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it into a disc. Place a mozzarella cube in the center, then wrap the meat around the cheese, rolling it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese.
4. Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat.
7. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Serve the meatballs hot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs: A Classic Recipe with a Cheesy Twist

Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic Italian meatball recipe. Combining juicy ground beef and pork, these meatballs hide a gooey, melty mozzarella center that adds a burst of cheesy goodness with every bite. This dish offers a balance of rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a perfect comfort food for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even as an appetizer for special occasions. Beyond its irresistible taste, this recipe has a rich background in Italian cuisine and brings a comforting warmth to the table that makes it truly special.

The Origins and Tradition of Italian Meatballs

Traditional Italian meatballs, or “polpette,” have been a staple in Italian cuisine for generations. Unlike the Americanized version often served over pasta, Italian meatballs are smaller, more delicate, and often enjoyed as a standalone dish or with a simple tomato sauce. They can be found in various regions of Italy, each offering its own spin with different types of meat and herbs. This recipe takes inspiration from these traditions, but with a modern twist—stuffing each meatball with mozzarella cheese, creating a delightful surprise with every bite.

Why This Recipe is the Best

1. Gooey, Melty Center: The highlight of this recipe is the surprise inside. By stuffing each meatball with mozzarella, you add a creamy, melted center that elevates the classic meatball to a whole new level. When baked, the mozzarella softens, creating a perfect balance with the savory meat. This cheesy center makes every bite rich and indulgent.
2. Perfect Blend of Flavors: This recipe combines ground beef and ground pork for a more complex and rich flavor profile. The beef provides a hearty, robust base, while the pork adds a hint of sweetness and tenderness. The addition of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh parsley creates a savory mix that complements the creamy mozzarella perfectly. These layers of flavor create a meatball that’s anything but ordinary.
3. Versatility in Serving: One of the great things about Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs is their versatility. Serve them over spaghetti or any pasta for a classic Italian-American meal, or pair them with a fresh salad for a lighter option. They also make an excellent appetizer—just pop a toothpick in each one and serve them with a side of marinara for dipping at parties. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser, no matter how you serve them.
4. Simple to Make, Yet Impressive: While these meatballs may look and taste gourmet, they are surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and about 45 minutes from start to finish, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table. This makes them ideal for both novice cooks looking to impress and seasoned chefs wanting a reliable go-to recipe.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Insights

1. Protein-Packed: With both ground beef and pork as the main ingredients, these meatballs are an excellent source of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health, making this dish a hearty option for those looking to boost their protein intake.
2. Calcium-Rich: The mozzarella cheese inside each meatball not only adds flavor but also provides a good amount of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Pairing these meatballs with a side of vegetables or a green salad can make for a balanced and nutritious meal.
3. Gluten-Free Option: While the recipe calls for breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs, you can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. This makes the recipe accessible to those with dietary restrictions while still maintaining the same great taste.

Tips for Perfect Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs

1. Choose High-Quality Meat: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ground beef and pork. If possible, opt for a blend with about 80% lean meat to 20% fat—this ensures the meatballs remain juicy without being too greasy.
2. Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the meat mixture, be gentle. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender texture.
3. Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that ooey-gooey center. Cut it into small cubes for easier stuffing and to ensure that the cheese melts evenly within the meatballs.
4. Bake, Don’t Fry: Baking the meatballs instead of frying them makes this recipe a bit healthier by reducing the amount of oil needed. It also allows the meatballs to cook evenly, retaining their shape while developing a deliciously browned exterior.

The Perfect Sauce Pairing

A rich and flavorful marinara sauce is the perfect companion for Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs. The acidity of the tomatoes balances out the richness of the meat and cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Simmering the meatballs in the sauce for a few minutes after baking allows them to absorb the tomatoey goodness, making every bite even more delicious. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

Variations and Customizations

1. Spicy Meatballs: For those who love a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or finely chopped chili peppers to the meat mixture. The spice pairs wonderfully with the creamy mozzarella.
2. Herb-Infused Meatballs: Mix in additional herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil to give the meatballs a more fragrant, Italian-inspired flavor. Fresh herbs work best, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch.
3. Different Cheese Options: While mozzarella is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like fontina, provolone, or even smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are hearty enough to stand on their own, but they also shine when served with complementary sides. Here are a few serving ideas to round out your meal:

• Pasta Night: Serve the meatballs over spaghetti, linguine, or even a bed of zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Crusty Bread: Pair the meatballs with warm, crusty bread to soak up all the extra marinara sauce. Garlic bread makes an especially tasty companion.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the meatballs, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Rice or Risotto: For a comforting twist, serve the meatballs over creamy risotto or a bed of garlic butter rice.

Why You Should Add This Recipe to Your Rotation

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s rare to find a dish that feels both luxurious and easy to make. Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs check all the boxes—delicious, simple, versatile, and satisfying. They are a fantastic way to bring a taste of Italian comfort into your home without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving them at a party, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the cheesy surprise inside each meatball makes them especially appealing to kids and picky eaters!

Conclusion

Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best of classic Italian flavors with a fun, cheesy twist. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that’s comforting, delicious, and sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is an easy yet rewarding addition to your repertoire. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of savory meat and melty cheese that makes this dish so special!