Name: Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 lbs Ground beef; 1/2 lbs Ground turkey; 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup Milk; 1 Egg; 2 tablespoons Parsley (chopped); 1/4 cup Grated parmigiano reggiano cheese; 1/2 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Pepper; 6 cloves Garlic (minced); 24 Mozzarella cubes (4 mozzarella string cheese sticks cut into 6 pieces each)

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 5 reviews

If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that combines gooey cheese and savory meat in every bite, this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe is going to become your new favorite. These meatballs are perfectly juicy and tender on the outside, with a melted mozzarella surprise hiding in the center that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a party, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe brings comfort food to a whole new delicious level with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of various cooking ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. At the top left, there is a clear glass bottle of milk, next to two whole garlic bulbs. Below them, four individually wrapped pale yellow cheese sticks are laid out horizontally. In the center, there are two clear bowls: one filled with ground pink meat and the other with ground lighter pink meat. To the right of these bowls is another clear bowl filled with light brown breadcrumbs. Below the meat bowls, a small clear bowl holds mixed dry herbs and spices. Near the bottom left, a small clear bowl contains a brown egg. On the right side, a small wooden board holds a wedge of pale yellow hard cheese with some freshly grated cheese beside it. At the bottom right corner, a bunch of fresh green parsley adds a touch of color. A woman’s hand is not seen directly touching anything, just the ingredients are spread out. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Pulling off the perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe is easier than you think, thanks to a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building flavor, moisture, or that irresistible texture we all crave in a juicy meatball.

Ground beef (1/2 lbs): Provides rich, hearty flavor and succulence.
Ground turkey (1/2 lbs): Adds a lighter, lean element to balance the beef.
Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Helps bind the meat mixture while keeping meatballs tender.
Milk (1/2 cup): Soaks into breadcrumbs to ensure moisture and softness.
Egg (1): Acts as the glue that holds all ingredients together perfectly.
Parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Brings a fresh, herbal lift to the meatballs.
Grated parmigiano reggiano cheese (1/4 cup): Adds depth and a salty, nutty finish.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors in the mixture.
Pepper (1/2 tsp): Provides a slight kick and warmth.
Garlic, minced (6 cloves): Infuses the meatballs with an aromatic punch.
Mozzarella cubes (24 pieces): The star ingredient, offering a melty, stringy cheesy center.

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper here is a small step that makes cleanup a breeze later and ensures your meatballs bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Soften the Breadcrumbs

Combine the breadcrumbs and milk in a mixing bowl, and let them sit for about 3 to 5 minutes. This rest allows the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk fully, providing moisture that keeps each meatball juicy and tender—no dry bites here!

Step 3: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients to the breadcrumb mixture, except the mozzarella cubes. Using your hands to mix everything is the key here because it helps you avoid overworking the meat, which can make meatballs tough. Make sure the ingredients are evenly combined for a flavorful bite every time.

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs

Divide the mixture into 24 equal portions to ensure consistent size and cooking. Flatten each portion, place a mozzarella cube in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around the cheese. Roll the meatball into a smooth, uniform ball with your hands so the cheese stays perfectly tucked inside.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the stuffed meatballs on your baking sheet, ensuring they have space so they cook evenly. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit to guarantee they’re safe and cooked all the way through. You will love the way the cheese melts inside without leaking out.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute inside and avoids burns from molten cheese. Then, get ready to savor one of the best Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe experiences you’ve ever had!

How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds several ingredients ready to be mixed: a mound of pink ground meat on the right, a beige crumbly mixture below and to the left, a small pile of chopped green herbs to the left, a whole raw yellow egg yolk near the center, and a sprinkle of white and black spices above the egg. To the top right side, another clear glass bowl contains several pale yellow, cylindrical pieces. Fresh green parsley and two whole garlic bulbs sit on the marbled surface along the left edge, adding a fresh touch. A white textured cloth is partly visible in the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves can add not only a burst of color but also a vibrant, fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the rich meat and melty cheese. Dusting with a little extra grated parmigiano reggiano before serving enhances the parmesan flavor even more.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair wonderfully with classic spaghetti and marinara sauce for an Italian-inspired meal, or serve them alongside roasted vegetables for a lighter option. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread also make excellent accompaniments, soaking up all the delicious juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive appetizer, serve smaller meatball sizes on skewers with a side of spicy tomato dipping sauce. Or use them to top a fresh salad for a hearty lunch. You can even stuff them into sub rolls with some marinara and melted cheese for an unforgettable meatball sub.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for tasty meals the next day.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these meatballs later, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, they maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months, ready to be baked straight from frozen.

Reheating

The best way to reheat leftover or frozen meatballs is in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. This keeps the outside crispy and the cheese melt inside luscious. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the meat rubbery and the cheese uneven.

FAQs

Can I use all beef instead of mixing beef and turkey?

Absolutely! Using all ground beef will make the meatballs richer and more flavorful, but mixing in turkey lightens the dish and adds variety in texture. Either way, your meatballs will be delicious.

What if I don’t have parmigiano reggiano cheese?

You can substitute with any hard Italian cheese like pecorino romano or even a good quality grated parmesan. It adds that savory, slightly salty background note that complements the garlic and parsley perfectly.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to completely encase each mozzarella cube with the meat mixture, sealing any gaps. Rolling them tightly ensures the cheese stays inside while melting during cooking.

Can I cook these meatballs in a skillet instead of the oven?

Yes, you can pan-fry them over medium heat, turning frequently until browned on all sides and cooked through. However, baking is easier for cooking many at once and results in more even cooking.

Are these meatballs suitable for a party platter?

Definitely! They look beautiful on a platter and are perfectly bite-sized. Serving with toothpicks and a marinara dipping sauce will make them a guaranteed hit at any gathering.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe inspires you to hop into the kitchen and create these cheesy, flavorful bites that bring smiles to any table. Once you taste the way the melty mozzarella oozes from these tender meatballs, you’ll understand why this recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite that pleases crowds every time.