Tender Cheese-Stuffed Baked Meatballs
These Tender Cheese-Stuffed Baked Meatballs are a mouthwatering dish that combines juicy beef with gooey mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce. Pan-seared to golden perfection and baked in savory tomato sauce, these meatballs are topped with melted cheese for a deliciously comforting meal. Whether as an appetizer or a hearty main dish, Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are guaranteed to impress your family and guests. Easy to make and full of flavor, this dish is a must-try!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings (about 2 meatballs per serving)
- Category: beef
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for the best juiciness)
2 large eggs
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 tsp dried oregano
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
2 tsp Kosher salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
6 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into ½” cubes
For the Sauce:
2 Tbsp neutral oil (such as grapeseed, avocado, canola, or vegetable oil)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
32 oz marinara sauce
Instructions
Make the Meatball Mixture:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, Kosher salt, and black pepper. Gently mix with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Form the Meatballs:
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Use a large cookie scoop to divide the mixture into 10-12 equal portions, about 2 oz each. Flatten each portion into a disc, and place 2-3 cubes of mozzarella cheese in the center. Carefully mold the beef around the cheese, sealing it completely. Roll the mixture into uniform meatballs and set aside.
Preheat the Oven:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pan-Sear the Meatballs:
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the neutral oil. Sear the meatballs for 4-5 minutes, turning them to brown on all sides.
Add the Sauce:
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Once the meatballs are browned, carefully pour marinara sauce over the meatballs. Then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
Bake the Meatballs:
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Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is fully melted.
Serve:
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Garnish the meatballs with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Meat Substitutes: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of these meatballs.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based ground meat or a mix of ricotta and spinach for stuffing.
- Cheese Variety: While mozzarella is traditional, you can also use provolone, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
