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Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

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Juicy meatballs stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, simmered in marinara sauce. A comforting and cheesy twist on a classic favorite, perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as an appetizer.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12–14 meatballs (serves 4)
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 oz low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, onion, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  2. Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture, flatten in your palm, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and wrap the meat around it to form a sealed ball. Repeat with remaining mixture.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes.
  4. Pour marinara sauce into the skillet, reduce heat, cover, and simmer meatballs for 20 minutes until fully cooked and cheese is melted inside.
  5. Serve hot over pasta, in sandwiches, or with extra sauce and bread for dipping.

Notes

  • Mix beef with pork or veal for richer flavor.
  • Add red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Ground turkey or chicken works as a lighter alternative—reduce breadcrumbs.
  • Freeze cooked or raw meatballs for up to 2 months.
  • Bake instead of frying at 400°F for 20–25 minutes if preferred.

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