The Mozzarella Stuffed Italian Meatballs Recipe is an absolute feast for anyone who loves a perfect harmony of juicy, flavorful meat and gooey, melted cheese waiting inside. Imagine biting into a tender meatball infused with Italian herbs and spices, only to find a luscious mozzarella surprise that takes every forkful to a whole new level of deliciousness. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, combining simplicity with that satisfying homemade touch that warms the heart and soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, quality ingredients is the first step to making these mozzarella stuffed Italian meatballs turn out perfect every time. Each component plays a crucial role, from the savory ground chuck to the aromatic herbs and the creamy mozzarella center, creating layers of taste and texture.
- 1½ lbs. ground chuck (80-90% lean): Delivers juicy, rich flavor while keeping the meatballs tender.
- â…“ cup Parmesan breadcrumbs: Adds light binding and a subtle cheesy undertone.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- ½ tsp ground black pepper: Provides just the right amount of gentle heat.
- 1 tsp dried sweet basil: Brings a fragrant, sweet, and slightly peppery note.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Introduces traditional Italian herbaceous warmth.
- 1 egg (lightly beaten): Acts as a binder to hold everything together beautifully.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth with a hint of umami richness.
- 1 tbsp water: Keeps the mixture moist and easy to mold.
- 4 oz. mozzarella pearls or 6 ounces fresh mozzarella (cubed): The star ingredient that melts into a creamy, irresistible core.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Serves as the flavorful, tangy base that complements the meatballs.
- Fresh basil or parsley (chopped): For a fresh and vibrant finishing touch.
How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Italian Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and give it a light spray of cooking oil. This small step ensures your meatballs will bake evenly without sticking and makes cleanup super easy.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, Parmesan breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, dried basil, oregano, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. This creates a perfectly seasoned base that’s moist but firm enough to hold the mozzarella inside.
Step 3: Stuff Each Meatball with Mozzarella
Take about two tablespoons of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball. Use your thumb or finger to make a large indentation in the center, careful not to go all the way through. Nestle three mozzarella pearls or one cube of fresh mozzarella inside. Gently pull the meat around the cheese to seal it completely, then smooth the outside by rolling it gently between your palms. This step is the heart of the Mozzarella Stuffed Italian Meatballs Recipe and guarantees that glorious cheesy surprise.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed meatballs on your prepared baking sheet and bake them for 15 to 20 minutes at 350°F. The meatballs will cook through nicely, and you might even catch a few little bubbles of molten mozzarella peeking out—that’s when you know they’re bursting with flavor inside.
Step 5: Warm the Marinara Sauce
While the meatballs bake, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s warm and ready to serve. This sauce provides the perfect tangy contrast to the rich meat and cheese.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meatballs come out of the oven, give them a few minutes to cool slightly so the cheese inside sets just enough to avoid any burn-your-mouth moments. Spread the marinara sauce in a serving dish, arrange your gorgeous mozzarella-stuffed meatballs on top, sprinkle with some freshly grated Parmesan or extra herbs, and dig in!
How to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Italian Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dish visually and taste-wise, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil right before serving. A light dusting of grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish that complements the melted mozzarella perfectly. These simple garnishes make the dish look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair these meatballs with classic Italian sides like spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic, a crisp Caesar salad, or crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra marinara sauce. Polenta or creamy risotto also work beautifully for a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these meatballs as party appetizers on wooden skewers with a small cup of marinara for dipping. You can also layer them in a sub sandwich with melted provolone or sautéed peppers and onions for a decadent handheld treat. The Mozzarella Stuffed Italian Meatballs Recipe lends itself well to endless presentations!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (they do go fast!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the meatballs and marinara sauce separate if possible, so the meatballs don’t get soggy.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about an hour. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, with parchment or wax paper between layers, for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the meatballs in marinara sauce over low-medium heat on the stovetop until warmed through. Alternatively, bake them at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the center is hot and the cheese inside melts fresh once again.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ground beef for this recipe?
While you can use leaner meat, the 80-90% lean ground chuck preferred for this recipe offers the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Lean meat can make the meatballs drier, so consider adding a little olive oil or an extra egg to compensate.
What type of mozzarella is best for stuffing?
Fresh mozzarella cut into cubes or mozzarella pearls both work wonderfully. The key is to use mozzarella that melts well and creates that delightful, gooey center when cooked.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the Parmesan breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure all other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free as well.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure to form a deep enough indentation and fully enclose the mozzarella with meat, sealing all edges tightly. Rolling gently to create a smooth surface helps keep the cheese inside as the meatballs cook.
Can I cook these meatballs in a skillet instead of baking?
Absolutely! Pan-frying over medium heat until browned on all sides and cooked through works well. Finish by simmering them gently in marinara sauce to melt the cheese and infuse extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something utterly comforting about homemade meatballs filled with melted mozzarella that can brighten up any meal and bring people to the table with smiles. The Mozzarella Stuffed Italian Meatballs Recipe is a delicious and approachable way to impress your family or guests without fuss. I can’t wait for you to try making this at home and discover how cheesy and satisfying every bite can be!
