Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a mouthwatering twist on the classic meatball dish. Each bite-sized meatball is packed with juicy ground meat, aromatic herbs, and a surprise core of gooey mozzarella cheese. Baked until golden and finished with a rich tomato sauce and a blanket of melted cheese, these meatballs are irresistible. Perfect for dinner, party appetizers, or even sandwich fillers, they are sure to impress with both flavor and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These meatballs take everything you love about traditional Italian cooking and elevate it with a cheesy center that melts in your mouth. The baking method keeps them moist without the need for constant monitoring, making this recipe incredibly convenient. Whether served over pasta, rice, or tucked inside crusty bread, the combination of seasoned meat and molten mozzarella makes this a must-try dish. It’s comforting, satisfying, and versatile—ideal for both family meals and entertaining guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or a beef/pork blend
• Mozzarella cheese (cubed or pearl-sized)
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, finely chopped
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Marinara or tomato sauce
• Shredded mozzarella (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
3. Take a small portion of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube or pearl of mozzarella in the center, then wrap the meat mixture around it and roll into a ball. Repeat until all meat is used.
4. Place the stuffed meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet or dish.
5. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
6. Remove from oven, spoon marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
7. Return to oven and bake an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
• Herb Blend: Try using fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for a more aromatic profile.
• Meat Choices: Use turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Cheese Swap: Replace mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or even cheddar for a new twist.
• Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. For a quick option, microwave on medium heat for 1–2 minutes, though the cheese center may not remain as gooey. These meatballs can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just reheat from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the uncooked meatballs up to one day in advance. Bake them when ready to serve.

What type of mozzarella is best for stuffing?

Low-moisture mozzarella works best as it melts well and doesn’t release excess water during baking.

Can I fry instead of bake the meatballs?

Yes, but baking is less messy and helps retain the shape with minimal oil.

What’s the best way to prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Ensure the meat mixture fully encases the cheese without gaps or thin spots.

Can I use store-bought meatballs and just stuff them?

It’s not recommended, as store-bought meatballs are already formed and cooked. Making them from scratch ensures proper sealing of the cheese.

How do I make the meatballs uniformly sized?

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out equal amounts of meat mixture.

What sauce goes best with these meatballs?

Classic marinara is ideal, but you can also try arrabbiata or creamy Alfredo for a different flavor.

Can I serve these as appetizers?

Absolutely. Use smaller portions and toothpicks for a perfect party snack.

Do I have to use egg in the mixture?

The egg acts as a binder, helping the meatballs stay intact. You can substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water if needed.

What should I serve with these meatballs?

Pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread are great accompaniments.

Conclusion

Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a delightful upgrade from traditional meatballs, combining the hearty taste of seasoned meat with the indulgence of melty mozzarella at the core. Whether you serve them as a main course, party dish, or sandwich filling, they are bound to become a favorite at your table. With easy prep, customizable ingredients, and family-friendly appeal, this recipe is a keeper for any home cook.

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