Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

Ah, the beloved meatball! Comforting and hearty, meatballs can be found in kitchens around the world. But when you introduce a layer of gooey mozzarella cheese at their core, you transform a simple dish into a delightful experience. These Cheese Stuffed Meatballs not only deliver on flavor but also on nostalgia. They hark back to family dinners where everyone gathers around the table, delighting in the joy of good food and camaraderie.

Additionally, they are incredibly versatile. You can serve them over a bed of pasta, nestled in a sub sandwich, or simply alongside a rich marinara sauce. The choice is yours! With ingredients that are often found in most pantries, they come together effortlessly. So why not dip your spoon into a warm dish that evokes comfort and cheer?

Lastly, these little wonders are not only scrumptious but also fun to make! Gathering family or friends to shape, stuff, and bake these meatballs turns cooking into a shared experience. The process of rolling the meatballs can be both satisfying and playful, making it a delightful way to spend time with those you cherish.

How to Make Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground beef (93%-7% fat)
1/2 pound ground mild Italian sausage
1 large egg
1/3 cup breadcrumbs
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus additional 1-2 tablespoons for garnish)
1/3 cup yellow onion, very finely diced
2 tablespoons half & half
2 teaspoons grated garlic
1 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning blend
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
15 cubes (3/4-inch) mozzarella cheese (from an 8-ounce block)
24-ounce jar of tomato & basil marinara sauce
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional garnish)

Directions:

First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and give it a light spray of olive oil cooking spray. This will help the meatballs brown beautifully.


Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, mild Italian sausage, egg, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, very finely diced yellow onion, half & half, grated garlic, Italian seasoning blend, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until it’s well combined but be careful not to overmix; we want tender meatballs, after all!


Using a 2-inch-sized cookie scoop, portion out about 15 meatballs. Gently flatten each meatball into a disc, and place a cube of mozzarella cheese right in the center. Carefully fold the sides of the disc up and around the cheese, shaping it into a perfectly round meatball.


Line the stuffed meatballs on your prepared baking sheet, placing them in rows. Bake them in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are lightly browned and cooked through.


While the meatballs are baking, warm up the marinara sauce in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. This will bring it to the perfect temperature for serving.


Once the meatballs are done, take them out and let them rest for about five minutes. Patience is a virtue, after all!


To serve, spoon some warm marinara sauce onto a serving plate, add the meatballs, and drizzle some additional sauce over the top. Finish it off with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese and a dash of fresh chopped parsley for that beautiful pop of color.


Enjoy these delightful Cheese Stuffed Meatballs as a satisfying main course!

How to Serve Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

Serving these Cheese Stuffed Meatballs can be as creative as your own culinary imagination! One of the simplest yet most delightful ways is to ladle them atop a generous serving of spaghetti. The marinara sauce, paired with the tender meatballs, creates a classic combination that feels both comforting and festive. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or perhaps a scatter of fresh basil to bring a burst of herbaceous freshness.

Alternatively, consider serving them on toasted sub rolls with a pour of marinara and a shower of cheese. This transforms a humble meatball into a hearty sandwich, perfect for a casual lunch or a special game day gathering. Just imagine each bite bursting with flavor, cheese, and the joys of a great meal shared with friends.

Lastly, for a more elegant presentation, serve the meatballs as an appetizer. Arrange them on a platter surrounded by toothpicks for easy picking, garnished with fresh parsley and a small bowl of warming marinara for dipping. This charming feature will make them a hit at parties, bringing a touch of Italian flair to your gatherings.

Additional Tips:

Be sure to use fresh ingredients when possible for the best flavor.
If you have leftover meatball mixture, consider making them smaller and using them in soups or stews.
These meatballs freeze beautifully, so if you make a large batch, don’t hesitate to store some for later enjoyment!

Nutrition Facts:

(Provide approximate values)

Calories per serving: 250-300
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 15g

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.

Q: What can I serve with these meatballs?

A: Pair them with spaghetti, polenta, or even a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for future meals!

Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

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