Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese

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Nothing beats biting into a juicy meatball only to be greeted with a gooey, melty mozzarella center. These Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese are a delicious upgrade from your traditional meatball recipe, loaded with flavor, texture, and that cheese pull that makes everyone go back for seconds. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, tucked into a sub roll, or as party appetizers, they deliver a cheesy surprise in every bite.

Each meatball is seared to perfection before being simmered in a rich tomato sauce. The outer crust is beautifully browned, while the inside remains tender and packed with herby goodness. And once that molten mozzarella oozes out? It’s pure comfort food magic.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese

These meatballs take comfort food to the next level. The blend of ground beef, garlic, fresh parsley, and Italian seasoning is classic, but the creamy melted mozzarella inside is the twist that keeps everyone talking. They’re freezer-friendly, meal-prep approved, and perfect for casual dinners or big gatherings alike.

What Kind of Mozzarella Should I Use?

For that perfect gooey center, opt for low-moisture mozzarella cheese sticks or small cubes of fresh mozzarella. The low-moisture option melts beautifully without making the meatballs watery, while fresh mozzarella offers a richer flavor. Avoid shredded mozzarella, as it may leak out during cooking.

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Ingredients for the Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a purpose to build the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and richness.

• Ground beef: The base of our meatballs, choose 80/20 for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the mixture and add a lightness to each bite.
• Egg: Acts as the glue that holds the meatballs together.
• Onion: Finely chopped for added sweetness and texture.
• Garlic: Minced for a flavor boost in every bite.
• Fresh parsley: Offers a touch of freshness to balance the richness.
• Italian seasoning: Infuses the meat with classic herb flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the meat.
• Mozzarella cheese: Cut into cubes and tucked into the center for that cheesy core.
• Olive oil: For searing the meatballs to get that golden crust.
• Marinara sauce: Simmered with the meatballs for added flavor and moisture.

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How To Make the Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Cut your mozzarella into small cubes, about 3/4 inch. Set them aside for stuffing.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until just combined — don’t overwork it!

Step 3: Stuff the Meatballs

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture, flatten it slightly, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll into a ball, making sure the cheese is fully sealed inside.

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. This locks in the flavor and helps them hold together.

Step 5: Simmer in Sauce

Pour marinara sauce into the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let the meatballs simmer for 15–20 minutes, until cooked through and the cheese is melted inside.

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How to Serve and Store Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese

These meatballs are perfect as a main dish or appetizer and serve about 4 to 6 people depending on portion size. You can pile them over spaghetti, nestle into toasted hoagie rolls, or serve on toothpicks for parties.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They also freeze well—just reheat in the oven or stovetop with a bit of marinara until hot.

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What to Serve With Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese?

Classic Spaghetti

Nothing beats the timeless pairing of meatballs with spaghetti and a generous spoonful of marinara.

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all the saucy goodness.

Roasted Vegetables

A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted with herbs adds color and nutrition.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine with creamy dressing offers a cool contrast to the hot, cheesy meatballs.

Polenta

Creamy or grilled polenta makes a comforting and hearty base.

Baked Ziti

Double up on cheesy goodness with a side of baked ziti.

Steamed Broccoli

A simple, healthy side to balance the richness.

Bruschetta

Serve as a fresh, tangy starter or side dish.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you’re all about easy dinners packed with bold flavors, check out these favorites on NoraNosh:

• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
• Beef Pasta in a Creamy Garlic Sauce
• Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you serve it on pasta or as sliders? Did you add extra herbs or a spicy twist?

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