Cheese-Stuffed Oven Baked Meatballs

These Cheese-Stuffed Oven Baked Meatballs are a cheesy twist on a beloved Italian classic. Each meatball is made from a blend of seasoned ground beef and pork, wrapped around a gooey cube of mozzarella, then baked until golden and bubbling in a rich marinara sauce.

Perfect for serving over pasta, alongside garlic bread, or simply on their own, these stuffed meatballs are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, baking instead of frying makes cleanup easier while still delivering maximum flavor and melty cheese in every bite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 blend)

• 1 lb ground pork

• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup whole milk

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 small yellow onion, grated

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 16 small cubes of low-moisture mozzarella (about 1/2 inch each)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cups marinara sauce

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, milk, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined do not overmix.

3. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion the meat mixture into 2-tablespoon sized balls. Flatten slightly in your hand, then press a cube of mozzarella into the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll into a ball, making sure the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat for all meatballs.

4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, about 2 minutes per side, until golden. Do not overcrowd the pan.

5. Transfer the browned meatballs to the prepared baking sheet.

6. Spoon a bit of marinara sauce over each meatball, then transfer the tray to the oven.

7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melty.

8. Serve warm with extra sauce and fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Cheese-stuffed oven baked meatballs are the ultimate comfort food hybrid. They combine the juicy, savory flavor of traditional Italian meatballs with the delightful surprise of a melted mozzarella center, all wrapped up in a golden-baked exterior and nestled in rich marinara sauce. Whether served atop spaghetti, tucked into a hoagie roll, or plated as the centerpiece of a hearty dinner, these meatballs bring an element of fun and indulgence to any meal.

This dish is an ideal fusion of old-world charm and modern culinary creativity. While meatballs are a staple in countless global cuisines, stuffing them with cheese and baking them elevates the flavor and texture profile to new heights. It’s no wonder that this version of the humble meatball has quickly become a favorite among home cooks, foodies, and families alike.

The Origins and Evolution of the Meatball

The meatball has deep historical roots. Though commonly associated with Italian cuisine, nearly every culture has its version of ground meat rolled into balls. From Sweden’s köttbullar to Turkey’s köfte and the Middle Eastern kefta, this simple yet versatile food has transcended borders.

In Italy, meatballs or “polpette” are traditionally smaller and often served without pasta. They are seasoned with garlic, herbs, breadcrumbs, and cheese, then pan-fried or baked. Italian-American cuisine later introduced the meatball to tomato sauce and spaghetti, creating the dish that is now iconic in many households.

The innovation of stuffing meatballs with cheese is a modern twist that enhances both taste and experience. The cheese not only adds richness but also a gooey texture that contrasts beautifully with the meat’s firm, savory exterior. When baked, the flavors meld together harmoniously, and the meatballs remain moist without excess oil.

Why Bake Instead of Fry?

Baking meatballs, especially those stuffed with cheese, offers several key advantages:

1. Healthier Preparation: Baking eliminates the need for excess oil, reducing overall fat content. It also avoids the splatter and cleanup that come with pan-frying.
2. Consistent Cooking: Baking ensures even cooking throughout the meatball. When stuffed with cheese, this method helps melt the center thoroughly without risking a burnt exterior.
3. Convenience: With baking, you can cook an entire batch at once, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd. You can also prepare them ahead of time and reheat later.

This approach results in meatballs that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and oozing with cheese in every bite.

The Secret to a Perfect Cheese-Stuffed Center

Getting that perfect cheesy center requires some attention to detail. Low-moisture mozzarella is often used because it melts smoothly without releasing too much liquid, which could otherwise make the meatball fall apart or become soggy.

To keep the cheese securely inside, it’s important to properly seal the meatball around the cube of cheese. Use damp hands to form each ball, gently pressing the meat around the cheese to avoid air pockets. Chilling the meatballs before baking can also help maintain their shape during cooking.

Additionally, using a mix of ground beef and pork provides the best flavor and texture. The pork adds juiciness and richness, while the beef contributes robust depth. Together, they create a well-balanced bite that pairs beautifully with the melted cheese core.

Flavor Enhancers and Pairing Suggestions

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its main components but also in the layers of flavor you can build around them. Grated Parmesan, fresh herbs like parsley and basil, and a good quality marinara sauce all elevate the dish.

For added dimension, consider:

• Using caramelized onions or roasted garlic in the meat mixture
• Serving with a spicy arrabbiata sauce for heat
• Pairing with roasted vegetables or a green salad to balance richness

For serving, the meatballs are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas:

• With Pasta: The classic way over spaghetti or fettuccine, with extra sauce and Parmesan.
• On a Sub Roll: Turn them into meatball subs with toasted bread, marinara, and more cheese.
• As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and a dipping sauce for parties.
• With Polenta or Rice: A cozy, satisfying alternative to pasta.

Why This Dish is a Family Favorite

There’s something universally appealing about melted cheese inside anything. Add to that the nostalgic comfort of meatballs, and you have a recipe that pleases both kids and adults. The fun of cutting into a meatball and seeing gooey cheese stretch out is a culinary delight that turns even a regular dinner into an experience.

From a busy weeknight meal to a dish you bring to potlucks or Sunday dinner, cheese-stuffed oven baked meatballs are reliable, customizable, and always delicious.

Moreover, they can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the freezer, making them incredibly convenient. Just bake from frozen, and you’ve got a warm, comforting meal in under an hour.

Make It Your Own: Variations and Customizations

This dish is endlessly adaptable. Some fun variations include:

• Using different cheeses: Try provolone, cheddar, or even blue cheese for a more pungent twist.
• Adding heat: Mix chili flakes or minced jalapeños into the meat for a spicy kick.
• Going low-carb: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour and serve over zucchini noodles.
• Making it vegetarian: Use a plant-based meat alternative and stuff with dairy-free cheese.

These customizable aspects make the recipe suitable for various dietary needs and flavor preferences. You can even shape them into smaller balls for party appetizers or larger ones for a hearty entrée.

Tips for the Best Results

To make your cheese-stuffed meatballs flawless every time, consider the following tips:

• Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Dried versions work, but fresh parsley or basil adds vibrancy.
• Do not overwork the meat mixture, which can result in dense meatballs.
• Chill before baking to help them hold shape and ensure even cooking.
• Always use a lined baking sheet or lightly greased baking dish for easy removal and cleanup.

These simple strategies can elevate your dish from good to exceptional.

Conclusion: A Cheesy Crowd-Pleaser That Never Disappoints

Cheese-stuffed oven baked meatballs strike the perfect balance between classic comfort food and modern indulgence. They’re easy to make, full of rich flavors, and adaptable to a wide range of preferences. Whether you’re trying to impress dinner guests, satisfy a picky eater, or just looking to treat yourself, this dish delivers on all fronts.

The appeal is undeniable: gooey cheese, hearty meat, and a zesty tomato sauce all baked into one cohesive dish that tastes like home. Once you make these, they’re bound to become a regular part of your kitchen rotation. And with so many ways to customize and serve them, the possibilities are virtually endless.

So go ahead embrace the cheesy center, savor the bold flavors, and enjoy a meal that brings warmth and joy to any table.