There's nothing quite like biting into a tender, flavorful meatball only to discover a gooey, melted mozzarella center. These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests at your next gathering.

I remember the first time I made these; I was looking for a way to elevate a classic spaghetti dinner. One bite of these cheesy delights, and my family was hooked! With simple ingredients and easy prep, this recipe has quickly become a staple in our household.

Why You'll Love This Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners with this irresistible recipe. These stuffed meatballs aren’t just delicious – they’re a total crowd-pleaser.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make, even for beginners. With a few pantry staples and a little prep work, you’ll have restaurant-quality meatballs on the table in no time.

Second, the cheese pull factor is unbeatable. Each meatball hides a generous cube of mozzarella, creating a delightful surprise with every bite.

They’re also perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch, freeze them, and you’ve got a ready-to-go protein option for busy nights.

Finally, these meatballs are versatile. Serve them over spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or even as a party appetizer – the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings a distinct flavor and texture to create the perfect meatball.

Ground beef and pork: The combination of beef and pork adds a rich, juicy flavor. You can use just beef if you prefer, but the pork enhances the tenderness.
Breadcrumbs: These act as the binding agent, keeping the meatballs from falling apart. Panko or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs work great here.
Egg: A single egg is all you need to hold everything together.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the meat mixture. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.
Mozzarella cheese: The star of the show! Choose low-moisture mozzarella to prevent the cheese from oozing out during cooking.
Garlic and onion: These aromatics bring depth to the meatballs. Finely dice the onion to ensure it blends seamlessly into the mixture.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme brings classic Italian flavors to the dish.

You’ll also need a large baking sheet and parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How To Make This Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Crafting these cheesy meatballs is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the meatballs cook evenly and don’t stick.

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, finely diced onion, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense, so aim for just combined.

Next, cut your mozzarella cheese into small cubes, about ¾ inch in size. This size is perfect for ensuring the cheese melts fully without oozing out.

Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and fold the meat around it, rolling gently to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese.

Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced out so they cook evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.

For extra flavor, simmer the cooked meatballs in marinara sauce for 10 minutes before serving. This step infuses them with even more richness and keeps them juicy.

Storage Options

These meatballs are excellent for meal prep and store beautifully.

Refrigerator: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or a simmering marinara sauce until heated through.
Freezer: Place the cooked, cooled meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen meatballs in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or let them simmer in sauce on the stovetop.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe makes it easy to customize to your liking.

Change up the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Try different cheeses: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, Gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Make them gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute.
Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a hint of heat.
Herb it up: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.

Experimenting with flavors and fillings is half the fun. Don’t be afraid to make these meatballs your own!

Whether you’re serving these Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs over a bed of pasta, tucked into a sandwich, or as a stand-alone appetizer, one thing’s for sure – they’ll disappear in no time. With their tender texture, bold flavor, and melty cheese center, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home too.