There's nothing quite like biting into a juicy, flavorful meatball only to discover a melty, cheesy surprise inside. These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are the perfect combination of tender beef, gooey mozzarella, and savory seasonings. They're a hit at every family dinner or gathering!
I first made these meatballs for a weekend game night, and they disappeared before I could even plate them! They’re easy to make, totally irresistible, and pair perfectly with pasta, zoodles, or a simple salad. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.
Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this fun twist on a classic favorite. These mozzarella stuffed meatballs bring together bold flavors and a cheesy surprise that’s hard to resist.
First, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even if you’re new to cooking. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that looks (and tastes!) like it took hours to make.
These meatballs are endlessly versatile. Serve them with marinara sauce over spaghetti for a hearty meal, as an appetizer with toothpicks at your next party, or in a sub sandwich for a comforting lunch.
They’re also a family favorite! The gooey mozzarella center adds a delightful surprise that even picky eaters can’t say no to. It’s a fun way to make mealtime exciting and delicious.
Lastly, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch, freeze some, and you’ll have a quick, satisfying dinner ready to go on busy nights. Now, let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need to bring this recipe to life.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each ingredient is important.
Ground beef: The foundation of the meatballs. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Too lean, and the meatballs can turn out dry; too fatty, and they might fall apart during cooking.
Mozzarella cheese: The star of the show! Use low-moisture mozzarella for a perfectly melty center that doesn’t make the meatballs soggy. Pre-cut mozzarella cubes are convenient, but you can also cut your own from a block.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs and give them a tender texture. Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your flavor preference.
Egg: A key binder that ensures your meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and salt create a deliciously savory base. Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, umami-packed layer of flavor to the meatball mixture. Freshly grated is best for maximum flavor.
You’ll also need a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a mixing bowl to prepare and cook the meatballs.
How To Make This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Making these mozzarella stuffed meatballs is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish in no time.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, seasonings, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently with your hands until all the ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Cut your mozzarella cheese into small cubes, about ¾-inch in size. Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and wrap the meat around it, rolling gently to form a ball. Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent it from leaking out during cooking.
Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
While the meatballs are baking, warm your favorite marinara sauce in a saucepan. Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the sauce and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair them with your favorite side dishes or enjoy them on their own.
Storage Options
Leftover mozzarella stuffed meatballs store beautifully, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. Here’s how to keep them fresh.
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They reheat well in the microwave, stovetop, or oven – just add a little marinara sauce to keep them moist.
To freeze, arrange the baked (but not sauced) meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them in marinara sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some fun ways to customize your mozzarella stuffed meatballs:
- Swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork for different flavor profiles.
- Add finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini to the meat mixture for a hidden veggie boost.
- Use flavored breadcrumbs or add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the mix for extra zest.
- Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or fontina for a unique twist.
- Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal.
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own. Whether you stick to the classic version or try a new variation, these mozzarella stuffed meatballs are sure to impress!
PrintEasy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe
Indulge in this Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe, featuring juicy meatballs oozing with melted mozzarella cheese. A family-favorite dish perfect for dinner, appetizers, or pairing with pasta.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Take a small handful of the mixture, flatten it, and place a mozzarella cube in the center. Wrap the meat mixture around the cheese, forming a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.
- Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and bake for 20-25 minutes, until fully cooked.
- Serve warm with pasta, bread, or as an appetizer.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Ensure the mozzarella cubes are well-covered to avoid cheese leakage.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 meatballs
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
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