Tender Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs (Print-Friendly Version)
Beef meatballs filled with mozzarella, baked in rich tomato sauce, topped with gooey cheese and fresh basil.
# Ingredients:
→ For the meatballs
01 -
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
02 -
2 large eggs
03 -
½ cup breadcrumbs
04 -
2 tsp dried oregano
05 -
2 tsp garlic powder
06 -
2 tsp onion powder
07 -
2 tsp Kosher salt
08 -
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
09 -
6 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into ½" cubes
→ For the sauce
10 -
2 Tbsp neutral oil (e.g., grapeseed, avocado oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil)
11 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella
12 -
¼ cup grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
13 -
32 oz marinara sauce
14 -
Fresh basil leaves, for serving
# Steps:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, whisk 2 eggs. Add ground beef, breadcrumbs, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, Kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with hands until very well combined, avoiding overworking the meat.
02 -
Use a large cookie scoop to divide the mixture into 10-12 evenly sized portions (about 2 oz each). Flatten each portion into a disc and place 2-3 mozzarella cubes in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese to seal completely, then roll each into a uniform ball.
03 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add neutral oil and sear meatballs for 4-5 minutes, turning with tongs until golden brown. Carefully pour marinara sauce over the meatballs.
04 -
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the meatballs. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and meatballs are warmed through. Serve with fresh basil and additional Parmesan, if desired.
05 -
To reheat, cover meatballs in a skillet or baking dish with foil. Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until warm throughout.
06 -
Form meatballs and freeze or refrigerate. If frozen, defrost overnight in the fridge, then proceed with pan searing and baking.
# Notes:
01 -
Serve the meatballs over creamy polenta or alongside pasta for a complete meal.