Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs: Juicy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the aroma of freshly baked meatballs, stuffed with molten mozzarella that stretches with every bite. These Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs combine the richness of beef, the nutty depth of Parmesan, and the freshness of herbs into a dish that feels gourmet yet is delightfully easy to prepare. Perfect for a family dinner, a cozy weeknight meal, or as an impressive appetizer for guests, these meatballs are designed to wow.

Ingredients & Their Role

• 1 small onion, grated: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to keep meatballs tender.
• 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped: Infuses freshness and balances richness of meat and cheese.
• 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides salty, nutty depth and helps bind the mixture.
• 1/3 cup Italian bread crumbs: Ensures structure and absorbs excess moisture so meatballs hold together.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, adding richness and keeping ingredients together.
• 2 tablespoons marinara sauce plus 1/3 cup: Brings tangy tomato flavor inside the meatballs and as a baking base.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth and savory punch.
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes: Enhances flavor with subtle heat.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning for perfect flavor balance.
• 1 package ground beef (1.5-2 lbs): The hearty, juicy protein base for the meatballs.

Each ingredient has a purpose: moisture, binding, flavor, and aroma. This ensures your meatballs are not just tasty, but also tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• Grated onion
• Chopped parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian bread crumbs
• Large egg
• 2 tablespoons marinara sauce
• Minced garlic
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper
• Ground beef

Mix gently using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent dense meatballs.

Step 3: Shape & Stuff the Meatballs

• Take about 2 tablespoons of meat mixture and flatten slightly in your hand.
• Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center.
• Carefully wrap the meat around the cheese, forming a smooth ball without any gaps.
• Repeat with remaining mixture and mozzarella cubes.

Step 4: Arrange for Baking

• Place the stuffed meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
• Pour the remaining 1/3 cup marinara sauce over the meatballs to keep them moist and flavorful while baking.
• Optional: Sprinkle extra Parmesan or Italian herbs on top for a golden, aromatic finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until meat is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Optional: For extra golden tops, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
• Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the mozzarella to settle slightly.

These steps ensure your Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly gooey inside with melted mozzarella in every bite.

Step 6: Serving Your Meatballs

These Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are versatile and perfect for multiple serving options:

• Over Pasta: Place meatballs on a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine and drizzle with extra marinara sauce.
• In Sandwiches: Stuff them into a toasted hoagie roll with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for a hearty sub.
• As Appetizers: Serve on a platter with toothpicks and a side of marinara for dipping at parties or family gatherings.

Step 7: Garnishing Ideas

• Chopped fresh parsley or basil for color and freshness.
• Shredded Parmesan for extra nutty flavor.
• Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance aroma and shine.

Step 8: Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cheese may firm slightly but flavor remains intact.
• Freezing: Wrap meatballs tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Step 9: Reheating Tips

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual meatballs for 30–45 seconds. Note: tortilla will soften slightly.
• Optional: Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top before reheating for that fresh, melty pull effect.

Step 10: Creative Presentation Ideas

• Serve with colorful roasted vegetables on the side for a balanced meal.
• Place over a creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner.
• Arrange on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces (marinara, garlic aioli, pesto) for parties.

By following these tips, your Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs will not only taste amazing but also look stunning and elegant, making them suitable for family dinners, festive gatherings, or even casual game nights.

Step 11: Expert Tips for Perfect Meatballs Every Time

• Choose Quality Beef: For juicy meatballs, use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). Too lean can result in dry meatballs.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to keep the texture tender and avoid dense meatballs.
• Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to ensure even cooking.
• Cheese Placement: Make sure mozzarella is fully enclosed by meat to prevent leakage during baking.
• Rest Before Serving: Let meatballs rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juices and keep cheese molten.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary. Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for gourmet flair.

Step 12: Recipe Conclusion

The Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are more than just a meal—they are an experience. Each bite offers a perfect combination of juicy beef, melted mozzarella, fragrant herbs, and savory marinara. This recipe proves that homemade comfort food can be elegant, satisfying, and downright irresistible. Whether served over pasta, in a sandwich, or as a party appetizer, these meatballs impress every time.

With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and professional tips, this recipe is accessible for home cooks of all levels. Your family and guests will marvel at the gooey cheese pull, rich flavors, and tender texture, making these meatballs a timeless favorite that you’ll want to prepare again and again.

Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and make every meal a special occasion with these perfectly baked, mozzarella-stuffed delights!