Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs: Ooey-Gooey Perfection!

July 6, 2025Maria

Introduction To Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs

Few things in the world of comfort food compare to the mouthwatering delight of Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs. These tender, juicy meatballs filled with molten mozzarella cheese deliver a flavor-packed bite that melts in your mouth, combining the savory goodness of seasoned meat with the creamy, stretchy cheese surprise inside. Perfect as a main dish over pasta, a hearty appetizer, or even a game-day snack, these meatballs bring a gourmet touch to any meal without the fuss.

This recipe elevates classic meatballs by adding a luscious center of mozzarella, creating an irresistible oozy cheese pull that’s both fun and indulgent. The combination of herbs, spices, and rich meat perfectly complements the creamy cheese core, making every bite an explosion of flavor and texture. Whether served with marinara sauce or enjoyed on their own, these stuffed meatballs promise to satisfy your cheesy cravings and impress any crowd.

Why Is This Recipe So Popular?

Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs have become a beloved recipe because:

Cheese-Stuffed Goodness: The gooey mozzarella surprise inside adds a unique, luxurious twist.
Versatile Serving Options: Great as appetizers, dinner mains, or party snacks.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike for their classic flavor and cheesy center.
Comfort Food Classic: Combines familiar, comforting ingredients in an exciting way.
Easy to Make Ahead: Can be prepared and frozen before cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✅ Ooey and Gooey – Melted mozzarella inside every meatball.
✅ Juicy & Flavorful – Well-seasoned meat with herbs and spices.
✅ Perfectly Portion-Controlled – Great for parties or family dinners.
✅ Easy to Bake or Fry – Flexible cooking methods.
✅ Kid-Friendly – Cheesy, tender bites that everyone loves.

Ingredients:

These ingredients come together to form a powerhouse of flavor:

🥩 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
🧀 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
🥖 ½ cup breadcrumbs
🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
🧅 ½ small onion, finely chopped
🥚 1 large egg
🌿 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
🧂 1 tsp salt
🌶️ ½ tsp black pepper
🧴 1 tsp Italian seasoning
🧀 ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
🍅 Marinara sauce for serving
🛢️ Olive oil for frying or greasing

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Filling 🧀

Cut mozzarella cheese into small cubes, about ½ inch each. Set aside in the fridge to keep cool.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients 🥩

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until all ingredients are incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.

Step 3: Stuff the Meatballs 🍖

Take a small handful of meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place one cube of mozzarella in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around the cheese, forming a ball and sealing the cheese completely inside. Repeat until all meat mixture is used.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs 🍳

You can either:

Pan-fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes).
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place meatballs on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden.

Step 5: Serve with Marinara 🍅

Warm marinara sauce on the side or pour over the meatballs. Serve hot to enjoy the melty mozzarella center.

Variation:

Spicy Meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil and oregano to enhance flavor.
Cheese Blend: Use a mix of mozzarella and provolone or fontina for a richer cheese center.
Sauce Options: Serve with pesto, creamy Alfredo, or barbecue sauce for different flavor profiles.

COOKING Note:

🧀 Make sure the mozzarella cubes are fully enclosed to prevent cheese from leaking out during cooking.
🥩 Handle the meat gently to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
🔥 Avoid overcrowding the pan or baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
🍳 If frying, turn meatballs gently to brown all sides without breaking them apart.

Serving Suggestions:

These mozzarella-stuffed meatballs pair beautifully with:

🍝 Spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
🥖 Crusty garlic bread or baguette slices
🥗 Fresh green salad or Caesar salad
🧀 A side of roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach
🍷 A glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot

Tips:

Refrigerate meatballs for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
Use low-moisture mozzarella for less water release.
Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a bag for future meals.
Serve immediately for best cheese pull effect.
Experiment with seasoning to match your taste preferences.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Meatball Approx.):

Calories: 120
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 7g
Sodium: 350mg
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 0g

FAQs:

Can I use frozen mozzarella sticks instead of cubes?

Yes, but slice them into smaller pieces to ensure even stuffing and cooking.

How do I prevent cheese from leaking?

Seal the meat tightly around the cheese and chill the meatballs before cooking.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier method and still produces delicious results.

How long do leftovers keep?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.

Can I make these meatballs ahead?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 2 months.

Conclusion:

Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are a cheesy, comforting delight that transforms traditional meatballs into a gourmet experience. With a golden, tender exterior and a molten mozzarella center, they’re the perfect dish for family dinners, parties, or cozy nights in. Easy to customize and versatile in serving, these meatballs promise ooey-gooey perfection every time. So, grab your ingredients, get ready for cheese pulls, and enjoy a dish that truly satisfies both the soul and the taste buds!