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Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

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4.2 from 12 reviews

Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are juicy, flavorful ground beef meatballs filled with sharp cheddar cheese and seasoned with Italian spices. Baked to perfection until golden and served with warm marinara sauce, these meatballs make a delicious appetizer or main course with a melty cheesy center that elevates the classic comfort food.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 16 meatballs

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ⅓ cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons half and half
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped chives
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 to 3 ounces sharp cheddar cheese cut into small cubes

Sauce & Garnish

  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko bread crumbs, egg, half and half, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, onion powder, smoked paprika, chopped chives, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use a wooden spoon to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  3. Shape the meatballs: Using a small cookie scoop, portion the meat mixture into 16 equal-sized balls. Flatten each ball slightly into a disc shape on your hands.
  4. Stuff with cheese and shape rounds: Place a small cube of sharp cheddar cheese in the center of each disc. Wrap the meat mixture around the cheese, completely sealing it to encase the cheese. Roll each stuffed meatball back into a round shape and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake the meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The meatballs should be cooked through with no pink in the center, and the cheese inside will be melted.
  6. Heat marinara sauce and serve: While the meatballs bake, warm the marinara sauce on the stovetop or microwave. Serve the hot meatballs with the marinara sauce spooned over or on the side. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional chives if desired.

Notes

  • For best results, use freshly chopped herbs and quality sharp cheddar for the cheese center.
  • You can bake the meatballs a few minutes longer if you want a crispier outer layer.
  • These meatballs freeze well before baking; bake frozen meatballs adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
  • Feel free to substitute marinara sauce with your favorite tomato or pasta sauce.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/cheese-stuffed-meatballs-recipe/