Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food—juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs with a molten, cheesy center, all simmered in a rich marinara sauce. Whether you serve them over pasta, in a sub, or on their own, these meatballs are bound to be a hit with family and friends.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy & Quick

• Only 10 minutes of prep time
• Bakes in the oven while you prepare the sauce or sides

Bursting with Flavor

• Juicy, well-seasoned ground chicken for a lighter twist
• Garlic, Italian seasoning, and parmesan add depth
• Mozzarella centers create an irresistible cheesy bite

Versatile & Family-Friendly

• Great for appetizers, main courses, or meal prep
• Can be made gluten-free with GF breadcrumbs
• Pairs well with pasta, salads, or crusty bread

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 2 pounds (906g) ground chicken
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon chopped thyme
• 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
• 2 cups (120g) panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup (22g) parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup (225g) mozzarella, cubed
• 24 ounces (680g) pasta sauce

Notes on Quality

Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor. Ground turkey or beef can be used instead of chicken. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, but block mozzarella works too.

Possible Substitutions

• Swap panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs
• Use almond flour for a low-carb option
• Substitute cheddar or provolone for a different cheese twist

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 395°F (180°C). Grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients except for the mozzarella and sauce. Mix gently until just combined.
• Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the meat mixture and press a cube of mozzarella into the center. Shape the meat around the cheese, forming a ball. Repeat until you have about 21 meatballs.
• Place the meatballs onto the baking sheet and brush with a little oil.

• Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
• While the meatballs bake, heat the pasta sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat.
• Once the meatballs are done, add them to the sauce and stir gently to coat.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan. Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or over a salad.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Mix the ingredients gently to avoid tough meatballs
• Use cold mozzarella cubes for easier stuffing
• Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for easy cleanup

Common Mistakes

• Overmixing the meat can make the meatballs dense
• Not sealing the cheese properly may cause it to leak out
• Cooking at too high a temperature can dry out the chicken

Time-Saving Tips

• Prepare the meat mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge
• Use store-bought marinara to cut down on prep time
• Freeze raw meatballs for quick meals later

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

These meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or even zoodles for a low-carb option. Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

For a romantic dinner spread, try serving them with these delicious appetizers:

• Valentine’s Day Stuffed Mushrooms
• Heart-Shaped Caprese Skewers
• Mini Spinach and Feta Puffs

Presentation Ideas

Sprinkle with fresh basil or extra parmesan for a restaurant-quality look. Serve in a skillet for a rustic feel or on a platter with toothpicks for appetizers.

Beverage Pairings

Pair these meatballs with a bold red wine like Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or a basil-infused lemonade.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

Reheating Methods

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm
• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes
• Stovetop: Simmer in sauce until heated through

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use beef instead of chicken?

Yes, ground beef, turkey, or pork all work well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to completely seal the meat around the mozzarella and avoid overstuffing.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Use ground turkey for a leaner option
• Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour for keto meatballs
• Use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version

Flavor Twists

• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean touch
• Swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and use cheddar for a Tex-Mex version

Seasonal & Holiday Versions

For a festive holiday dish, serve these meatballs in a slow cooker with cranberry sauce or a rich balsamic glaze.

Conclusion

These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are a game-changer for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. The gooey cheese center, rich flavor, and easy preparation make them a go-to recipe. Try them today and let me know how they turn out in the comments. Don’t forget to pin this recipe to your favorite board on Pinterest: Cooking with Callie Pinterest

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