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Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Close-up of mozzarella stuffed meatballs with gooey melted cheese stretching out, covered in tomato sauce, ultra realistic food photography, macro shot, high contrast, mouth-watering detail, 4k

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Juicy oven-baked meatballs hiding a molten Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs center that turns every bite into comfort-food bliss.
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: baked meatballs, cheese stuffed meatballs, homemade meatballs, mozzarella stuffed meatballs
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Rest Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 410kcal
Cost: $16

Ingredients

  • 1.33 pounds ground beef 80% lean (keeps meatballs juicy while holding shape)
  • 1 large egg beaten (acts as a binder for structure)
  • ⅓ cup breadcrumbs adds tenderness and moisture
  • ⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese boosts savory depth
  • 2¼ teaspoons minced garlic fresh gives best aroma
  • ⅓ cup finely minced onion should be very small for even texture
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt enhances overall flavor
  • ⅓ teaspoon ground black pepper adds gentle heat
  • 5–7 ounces mozzarella cheese cut into small cubes (melts into a gooey center)
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley adds freshness and color
  • 2 tablespoons water as needed (keeps mixture soft and workable)
  • Marinara sauce for serving (use warmed, well-seasoned sauce)
  • Cooked spaghetti for serving (al dente works best)

Instructions

  • Set the oven to 400°F and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with foil and lightly greasing the surface.
  • Combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and parsley in a large mixing bowl, stirring gently just until everything comes together.
    Raw meatball mixture in a glass bowl with ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, parsley and cheese, overhead food photography, bright natural light, clean white background, high detail
  • If the mixture feels dry or stiff, drizzle in 1 to 2 tablespoons of water until the texture becomes slightly sticky but not wet.
  • Scoop portions of the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, pressing one cube of mozzarella into the center of each portion.
    Raw beef meatballs stuffed with mozzarella cubes, arranged neatly on a foil-lined baking sheet, clean kitchen background, soft natural lighting, close-up food photography, high realism, ultra detailed
  • Fold the meat around the cheese completely and roll into balls about 1½ inches wide, sealing well so the cheese stays inside.
  • Bake uncovered, flipping the meatballs halfway through, until cooked through and lightly browned, about 18–22 minutes.
    Oven-baked beef meatballs on a foil-lined baking tray, golden brown with melted cheese leaking from the bottom, rustic homemade style, natural light, shallow depth of field, food photography, high detail, 4k
  • Let the meatballs rest briefly, then serve over spaghetti with warm marinara sauce or use in your favorite meatball dish.
    Mozzarella stuffed meatballs simmering in rich tomato sauce in a stainless steel skillet, Italian comfort food, fresh parsley garnish, warm lighting, realistic food photography, shallow depth of field

Notes

Golden, bubbling meatballs fresh from the oven are pure nostalgic comfort. The surprise cheese center makes these unforgettable for family dinners or cozy pasta nights.

Nutrition

Serving: 165g | Calories: 410kcal (21%) | Carbohydrates: 9g (3%) | Protein: 28g (56%) | Fat: 28g (43%) | Saturated Fat: 12g (75%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 130mg (43%) | Sodium: 520mg (23%) | Potassium: 420mg (12%) | Fiber: 1g (4%) | Sugar: 2g (2%) | Vitamin A: 6IU | Vitamin C: 4mg (5%) | Calcium: 18mg (2%) | Iron: 20mg (111%)
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