![- 1 pound ground beef - 1/2 pound ground pork (option for ground turkey) - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving) - 1 large egg - Fresh basil leaves for garnish When making stuffed meatballs, quality ingredients matter. I love using a mix of ground beef and pork for flavor and texture. You can swap the pork with ground turkey for a leaner option. The breadcrumbs help bind the meat and give it a nice texture. Mozzarella cheese is the star of this dish. I cut it into small cubes so it melts perfectly inside each meatball. This cheese creates that gooey, cheesy center that everyone loves. Adding Parmesan cheese boosts the flavor. Minced garlic gives a lovely aroma. Oregano and basil add a nice Italian touch. Always season with salt and pepper to make the flavors pop. For serving, I use marinara sauce. It adds moisture and enhances the flavor. Don't forget the fresh basil leaves for garnish; they add color and freshness. You can find the full recipe here to get started on this delicious dish! - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. To make the meat mixture, combine these ingredients in a large bowl: - 1 pound ground beef - 1/2 pound ground pork - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 large egg Mix them well with your hands. The mixture should feel sticky but hold together. This helps the meatballs stay moist. Now comes the fun part! Shape the meatballs around mozzarella cubes. - Take about a tablespoon of the meat mixture. - Flatten it in your palm. - Place a cube of mozzarella in the center. - Fold the meat around the cheese, forming a ball. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 20 to 25 minutes. They should be browned and cooked through. Check for doneness by cutting one open. The inside should no longer be pink. Heat your marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs finish baking, add them to the sauce. Let them simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the meatballs soak up the sauce's rich flavor. When serving, plate the meatballs with marinara sauce on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color. This dish looks great and tastes even better. For the full recipe, check the details above! To make the best stuffed meatballs, you need the right mix. Start with a blend of ground beef and ground pork. This mix gives great flavor and texture. Use one egg to hold everything together. If your meatballs feel too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If they feel too dry, add a splash of water or milk. This balance keeps them juicy. To avoid dry meatballs, do not overcook them. Bake just until they are brown and firm. Let them simmer in sauce after baking to soak up extra moisture. The marinara sauce adds flavor and keeps them tender. These meatballs shine when paired with pasta. Serve them over spaghetti or penne for a classic meal. You can also serve them as tasty appetizers. Just place toothpicks in them for easy eating. For side dishes, consider garlic bread or a fresh salad. A crisp Caesar salad complements the meatballs well. You can’t go wrong with a side of roasted veggies, either. Feel free to customize your meatballs with spices. Try adding crushed red pepper for heat or smoked paprika for depth. You can also mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor. If you want different cheese, swap out the mozzarella. Try provolone or fontina for a unique taste. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheese that melts well. This way, everyone can enjoy your stuffed meatballs. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs. {{image_2}} You can switch up the meat in your stuffed meatballs. Ground turkey or chicken works great. These options are leaner and still tasty. You can also try a mix of different meats for a unique flavor. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based meat. It mimics the texture and taste of meat well. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious meatballs! While mozzarella is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try provolone, gouda, or even cheddar for a different taste. Each cheese adds its own flavor and creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, there are vegan cheeses available. Look for those made from nuts or soy. They melt nicely and can replace mozzarella in the recipe. The sauce you use can change the whole dish. While marinara is a favorite, consider using Alfredo for a creamy touch. Pesto also adds a fresh taste and vibrant color. If you like heat, try spicy marinara. You can add red pepper flakes to your sauce for extra kick. Each sauce brings new life to the stuffed meatballs, making every meal special. To keep your stuffed meatballs fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Place them in the fridge right away. They will stay good for up to three days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. You can freeze both unbaked and baked meatballs. For unbaked ones, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Baked meatballs should cool completely before freezing. They will last for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot. Stuffed meatballs fit perfectly in any meal plan. You can add them to pasta dishes or serve them on a sub for a tasty sandwich. They also work great in soups or stews. Try using them in a meatball salad for a fun twist. These ideas make meal prep easy and fun! For the [Full Recipe], check the earlier section. Bake the stuffed meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check for a golden brown color. The meat should also be firm to the touch. This time ensures they cook through and stay juicy. Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead. Prepare them and store them in the fridge for up to one day. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them before baking. If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, try crushed crackers or oats. You can also use almond flour for a gluten-free option. These will still help hold the meatballs together while adding flavor. Check the meatballs with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). You can also cut one open to see if the meat is no longer pink. Juices should run clear. Absolutely! You can use Alfredo, pesto, or even a spicy sauce. Each sauce adds its own unique flavor to the meatballs. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite pairing. For the full recipe, be sure to check the details above. This article covered how to make delicious stuffed meatballs. You learned about key ingredients like ground meats, cheese, and seasonings. I shared step-by-step instructions for mixing, baking, and serving them. I also included tips to make perfect meatballs and offered creative variations. In closing, these meatballs can be fun and easy to make. You can customize them to your taste. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and serving ideas!](https://grilledflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/d76b185d-4cd0-42d2-882f-89d1267913fe.webp)
Prepare to delight your taste buds with stuffed meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella cheese! This scrumptious dish blends savory ground meats with flavorful herbs and a cheesy surprise. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step, from mixing ingredients to baking the perfect meatballs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will impress everyone at your dinner table. Let’s dive in and make dinner delicious!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Stuffed Meatballs
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork (option for ground turkey)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
Flavor Enhancers
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
– 1 large egg
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
When making stuffed meatballs, quality ingredients matter. I love using a mix of ground beef and pork for flavor and texture. You can swap the pork with ground turkey for a leaner option. The breadcrumbs help bind the meat and give it a nice texture.
Mozzarella cheese is the star of this dish. I cut it into small cubes so it melts perfectly inside each meatball. This cheese creates that gooey, cheesy center that everyone loves.
Adding Parmesan cheese boosts the flavor. Minced garlic gives a lovely aroma. Oregano and basil add a nice Italian touch. Always season with salt and pepper to make the flavors pop.
For serving, I use marinara sauce. It adds moisture and enhances the flavor. Don’t forget the fresh basil leaves for garnish; they add color and freshness. You can find the full recipe here to get started on this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Ingredients
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Mixing the Meat Mixture
To make the meat mixture, combine these ingredients in a large bowl:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large egg
Mix them well with your hands. The mixture should feel sticky but hold together. This helps the meatballs stay moist.
Forming and Baking the Meatballs
Now comes the fun part! Shape the meatballs around mozzarella cubes.
– Take about a tablespoon of the meat mixture.
– Flatten it in your palm.
– Place a cube of mozzarella in the center.
– Fold the meat around the cheese, forming a ball.
Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 20 to 25 minutes. They should be browned and cooked through. Check for doneness by cutting one open. The inside should no longer be pink.
Simmering and Serving
Heat your marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs finish baking, add them to the sauce. Let them simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the meatballs soak up the sauce’s rich flavor.
When serving, plate the meatballs with marinara sauce on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color. This dish looks great and tastes even better. For the full recipe, check the details above!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Meatballs
To make the best stuffed meatballs, you need the right mix. Start with a blend of ground beef and ground pork. This mix gives great flavor and texture. Use one egg to hold everything together. If your meatballs feel too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If they feel too dry, add a splash of water or milk. This balance keeps them juicy.
To avoid dry meatballs, do not overcook them. Bake just until they are brown and firm. Let them simmer in sauce after baking to soak up extra moisture. The marinara sauce adds flavor and keeps them tender.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs shine when paired with pasta. Serve them over spaghetti or penne for a classic meal. You can also serve them as tasty appetizers. Just place toothpicks in them for easy eating.
For side dishes, consider garlic bread or a fresh salad. A crisp Caesar salad complements the meatballs well. You can’t go wrong with a side of roasted veggies, either.
Enhancements and Add-ins
Feel free to customize your meatballs with spices. Try adding crushed red pepper for heat or smoked paprika for depth. You can also mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
If you want different cheese, swap out the mozzarella. Try provolone or fontina for a unique taste. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheese that melts well. This way, everyone can enjoy your stuffed meatballs. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs.
Variations
Different Meat Combinations
You can switch up the meat in your stuffed meatballs. Ground turkey or chicken works great. These options are leaner and still tasty. You can also try a mix of different meats for a unique flavor. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based meat. It mimics the texture and taste of meat well. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious meatballs!
Cheese Alternatives
While mozzarella is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try provolone, gouda, or even cheddar for a different taste. Each cheese adds its own flavor and creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, there are vegan cheeses available. Look for those made from nuts or soy. They melt nicely and can replace mozzarella in the recipe.
Sauce Variations
The sauce you use can change the whole dish. While marinara is a favorite, consider using Alfredo for a creamy touch. Pesto also adds a fresh taste and vibrant color. If you like heat, try spicy marinara. You can add red pepper flakes to your sauce for extra kick. Each sauce brings new life to the stuffed meatballs, making every meal special.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your stuffed meatballs fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Place them in the fridge right away. They will stay good for up to three days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Freezing Meatballs
You can freeze both unbaked and baked meatballs. For unbaked ones, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Baked meatballs should cool completely before freezing. They will last for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Meal Prep Ideas
Stuffed meatballs fit perfectly in any meal plan. You can add them to pasta dishes or serve them on a sub for a tasty sandwich. They also work great in soups or stews. Try using them in a meatball salad for a fun twist. These ideas make meal prep easy and fun! For the [Full Recipe], check the earlier section.
FAQs
How long to bake stuffed meatballs?
Bake the stuffed meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check for a golden brown color. The meat should also be firm to the touch. This time ensures they cook through and stay juicy.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead. Prepare them and store them in the fridge for up to one day. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them before baking.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, try crushed crackers or oats. You can also use almond flour for a gluten-free option. These will still help hold the meatballs together while adding flavor.
How can I tell when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Check the meatballs with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). You can also cut one open to see if the meat is no longer pink. Juices should run clear.
Can I use a different type of sauce for serving?
Absolutely! You can use Alfredo, pesto, or even a spicy sauce. Each sauce adds its own unique flavor to the meatballs. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite pairing. For the full recipe, be sure to check the details above.
This article covered how to make delicious stuffed meatballs. You learned about key ingredients like ground meats, cheese, and seasonings. I shared step-by-step instructions for mixing, baking, and serving them. I also included tips to make perfect meatballs and offered creative variations.
In closing, these meatballs can be fun and easy to make. You can customize them to your taste. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and serving ideas!
![- 1 pound ground beef - 1/2 pound ground pork (option for ground turkey) - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving) - 1 large egg - Fresh basil leaves for garnish When making stuffed meatballs, quality ingredients matter. I love using a mix of ground beef and pork for flavor and texture. You can swap the pork with ground turkey for a leaner option. The breadcrumbs help bind the meat and give it a nice texture. Mozzarella cheese is the star of this dish. I cut it into small cubes so it melts perfectly inside each meatball. This cheese creates that gooey, cheesy center that everyone loves. Adding Parmesan cheese boosts the flavor. Minced garlic gives a lovely aroma. Oregano and basil add a nice Italian touch. Always season with salt and pepper to make the flavors pop. For serving, I use marinara sauce. It adds moisture and enhances the flavor. Don't forget the fresh basil leaves for garnish; they add color and freshness. You can find the full recipe here to get started on this delicious dish! - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. To make the meat mixture, combine these ingredients in a large bowl: - 1 pound ground beef - 1/2 pound ground pork - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 large egg Mix them well with your hands. The mixture should feel sticky but hold together. This helps the meatballs stay moist. Now comes the fun part! Shape the meatballs around mozzarella cubes. - Take about a tablespoon of the meat mixture. - Flatten it in your palm. - Place a cube of mozzarella in the center. - Fold the meat around the cheese, forming a ball. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 20 to 25 minutes. They should be browned and cooked through. Check for doneness by cutting one open. The inside should no longer be pink. Heat your marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs finish baking, add them to the sauce. Let them simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the meatballs soak up the sauce's rich flavor. When serving, plate the meatballs with marinara sauce on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color. This dish looks great and tastes even better. For the full recipe, check the details above! To make the best stuffed meatballs, you need the right mix. Start with a blend of ground beef and ground pork. This mix gives great flavor and texture. Use one egg to hold everything together. If your meatballs feel too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If they feel too dry, add a splash of water or milk. This balance keeps them juicy. To avoid dry meatballs, do not overcook them. Bake just until they are brown and firm. Let them simmer in sauce after baking to soak up extra moisture. The marinara sauce adds flavor and keeps them tender. These meatballs shine when paired with pasta. Serve them over spaghetti or penne for a classic meal. You can also serve them as tasty appetizers. Just place toothpicks in them for easy eating. For side dishes, consider garlic bread or a fresh salad. A crisp Caesar salad complements the meatballs well. You can’t go wrong with a side of roasted veggies, either. Feel free to customize your meatballs with spices. Try adding crushed red pepper for heat or smoked paprika for depth. You can also mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor. If you want different cheese, swap out the mozzarella. Try provolone or fontina for a unique taste. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheese that melts well. This way, everyone can enjoy your stuffed meatballs. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs. {{image_2}} You can switch up the meat in your stuffed meatballs. Ground turkey or chicken works great. These options are leaner and still tasty. You can also try a mix of different meats for a unique flavor. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based meat. It mimics the texture and taste of meat well. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious meatballs! While mozzarella is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try provolone, gouda, or even cheddar for a different taste. Each cheese adds its own flavor and creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, there are vegan cheeses available. Look for those made from nuts or soy. They melt nicely and can replace mozzarella in the recipe. The sauce you use can change the whole dish. While marinara is a favorite, consider using Alfredo for a creamy touch. Pesto also adds a fresh taste and vibrant color. If you like heat, try spicy marinara. You can add red pepper flakes to your sauce for extra kick. Each sauce brings new life to the stuffed meatballs, making every meal special. To keep your stuffed meatballs fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Place them in the fridge right away. They will stay good for up to three days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. You can freeze both unbaked and baked meatballs. For unbaked ones, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Baked meatballs should cool completely before freezing. They will last for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot. Stuffed meatballs fit perfectly in any meal plan. You can add them to pasta dishes or serve them on a sub for a tasty sandwich. They also work great in soups or stews. Try using them in a meatball salad for a fun twist. These ideas make meal prep easy and fun! For the [Full Recipe], check the earlier section. Bake the stuffed meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check for a golden brown color. The meat should also be firm to the touch. This time ensures they cook through and stay juicy. Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead. Prepare them and store them in the fridge for up to one day. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them before baking. If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, try crushed crackers or oats. You can also use almond flour for a gluten-free option. These will still help hold the meatballs together while adding flavor. Check the meatballs with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). You can also cut one open to see if the meat is no longer pink. Juices should run clear. Absolutely! You can use Alfredo, pesto, or even a spicy sauce. Each sauce adds its own unique flavor to the meatballs. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite pairing. For the full recipe, be sure to check the details above. This article covered how to make delicious stuffed meatballs. You learned about key ingredients like ground meats, cheese, and seasonings. I shared step-by-step instructions for mixing, baking, and serving them. I also included tips to make perfect meatballs and offered creative variations. In closing, these meatballs can be fun and easy to make. You can customize them to your taste. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and serving ideas!](https://grilledflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/d76b185d-4cd0-42d2-882f-89d1267913fe-300x300.webp)