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Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12-16 meatballs
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

Tender oven-baked meatballs stuffed with gooey mozzarella and coated in rich tomato basil marinara sauce—comfort food perfection.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1/2 lb mild Italian sausage
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 1/4 cup very finely diced yellow onion
  • 2 tbsp half & half
  • 2 cloves garlic, grated
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12-16 cubes of mozzarella cheese (about 3/4-inch each)
  • 2 cups tomato & basil marinara sauce
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and spray with olive oil cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, sausage, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, half & half, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined.
  3. Scoop 2-inch portions of the mixture, flatten into discs, place a mozzarella cube in the center, and wrap the meat around to seal. Roll into balls.
  4. Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
  5. Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat.
  6. Let meatballs rest for 5 minutes, then serve over a spoonful of marinara. Add extra sauce on top and garnish with Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Ensure the mozzarella is completely sealed in to avoid leaks.
  • Use a cookie scoop for even meatballs.
  • Don’t overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
  • Swap sausage types or cheeses for variety.