Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that will make everyone at the table smile, you’ve come to the right place! These Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs are not just any meatballs; they’re packed with gooey mozzarella goodness that melts in your mouth. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish brings everyone together with its delightful flavors and comforting aroma. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

What I love most about these meatballs is how simple they are to prepare. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can whip these up quickly!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike go crazy for cheesy goodness—these meatballs are sure to please!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them for an easy meal later.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and melted cheese creates a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious dish!

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 blend)
• 1/2 lb Ground beef (Optional, adds flavor)
• 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Plain or Italian)
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated)
• 1 large Egg (Lightly beaten)
• 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 4 oz Mozzarella Cheese (Cut into 1/2 inch cubes)

For Serving

• 1 jar Marinara Sauce

Variations

One of the best things about these Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Mix in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or pepper jack for a fun twist on flavor.
• Serve differently: Instead of serving over pasta, try them in sub rolls for a cheesy meatball sandwich!

How to Make Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients well allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together. It’s important to mix just until combined—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs!

Step 2: Stuff with Cheese

Now comes the fun part! Take a small amount of the mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and gently fold the meat around it. This ensures that each meatball has a cheesy surprise inside. Remember to seal them tightly so that no cheese escapes during cooking!

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your prepared meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. This step is crucial as it locks in those juices and gives your meatballs that beautiful golden color. You may need to do this in batches so as not to overcrowd the pan.

Step 4: Simmer in Marinara Sauce

Once browned, pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This not only warms up the sauce but also infuses it with all those delicious flavors from the meatballs. Plus, who doesn’t love tender meatballs swimming in rich marinara?

I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your meal rotation as it has mine! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs

Making these meatballs is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate them to the next level!

• Choose the Right Meat: Using an 80/20 blend of ground beef ensures juicy meatballs. The extra fat keeps them moist during cooking.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix your ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so treat them gently!
• Chill Before Cooking: Letting the formed meatballs chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape better while cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality mozzarella make a noticeable difference in flavor. Aim for freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture.
• Experiment with Sauces: While marinara is classic, feel free to try different sauces like pesto or alfredo for a fun twist!

How to Serve Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs

Serving these cheesy delights can be as creative as you want! There are plenty of ways to present them that will impress your family and guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and freshness that pairs beautifully with the richness of the meatballs.
• Parmesan Shavings: A sprinkle of freshly shaved Parmesan gives an elegant touch and enhances the cheesy flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper on top for added heat and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce. Its crunchy exterior and soft, buttery inside complement the meatballs beautifully.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch to your plate. It’s simple and looks lovely alongside those cheesy meatballs.
• Pasta: Serve these meatballs over your favorite pasta shape for a hearty meal. Spaghetti or penne work especially well with marinara sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve your meatballs over cauliflower rice. It’s light but still filling, making it an excellent alternative.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with these Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs! They’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time for busy weeknights or store leftovers for a quick lunch. Here’s how to ensure they stay delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For added freshness, place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing

• Let the meatballs cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop in marinara sauce over medium heat until warmed.
• Microwave reheating is also an option; just cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative. Just keep in mind that it may require additional seasoning to enhance its flavor.

What should I serve with Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with spaghetti, zoodles (zucchini noodles), or even on a sub roll for a delicious meatball sandwich!

How do I know when my Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs are cooked through?

The best way to check is by using an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for ground beef.

Can I make Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs, store them in the fridge, or freeze them as mentioned earlier. They will taste just as fantastic when you’re ready to enjoy them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find these Cheesy Mozzarella Meatballs as delightful and comforting as I do! They are quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a special addition to any dinner table. Enjoy making this recipe for your loved ones and feel free to get creative with your sides! Happy cooking!

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