Get ready to fall in love with a dish that combines comfort, gooey cheese, and meaty goodness all in one bite. This Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Cheddar Topping Recipe is my ultimate go-to for a dinner that feels both decadent and satisfying. Each meatball wraps melted mozzarella inside, then spoils you with a bubbly, golden cheddar topping that adds a punch of flavor and texture. Perfect for sharing, easy to make, and utterly delicious, these meatballs will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a special role in creating rich, juicy meatballs bursting with cheesy goodness. From savory ground meats to fresh herbs and flavorful spices, these ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering experience you’ll want to savor again and again.
- Ground beef: The hearty base that adds rich, meaty flavor and juiciness to the meatballs.
- Ground pork (optional): Adds extra depth and tenderness for a perfectly moist texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Used as a topping to create a deliciously melted, golden crust.
- Mozzarella cheese cubes: The gooey surprise inside each meatball that melts to creamy perfection.
- Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs while keeping them tender and light.
- Large egg: Acts as a natural binder to keep everything together.
- Minced garlic: Adds a lovely kick of aromatic flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty dimension and enhances overall taste.
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a hint of freshness.
- Worcestershire sauce: Boosts savory umami notes for added complexity.
- Onion powder: A subtle sweetness that complements the meaty flavors.
- Smoked paprika: Lends a gentle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate every bite.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh finish when serving.
How to Make Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Cheddar Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures your meatballs cook quickly while keeping them juicy inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, optional ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly but gently, just until combined. Over-mixing can toughen the meatballs, so take care to preserve tender texture.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
This is the fun part where you transform your mixture into cheesy morsels. Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Nestle a cube of mozzarella in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around it, sealing the cheese completely inside. Roll it into a smooth, even ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used, envisioning that cheesy treasure inside each meatball.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Arrange the meatballs on your prepared baking sheet, making sure there’s enough space between each for even cooking and browning. Bake them for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and the mozzarella melts into that irresistible gooey center.
Step 5: Add the Cheddar Cheese Topping
Once out of the oven, generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese atop each meatball. Pop them back in the oven for 2 to 3 more minutes until the cheddar melts and bubbles into a golden, flavorful crown that takes these meatballs to the next level.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the meatballs from the oven and give them a finishing touch with freshly chopped parsley to add color and a hint of freshness. Serve them hot and watch as everyone’s eyes light up with delight!
How to Serve Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Cheddar Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is my favorite way to garnish because it adds a beautiful green contrast and a subtle herbaceous note that balances the richness of the cheddar and meat. Feel free to experiment with chopped chives or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!
Side Dishes
This recipe shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta, or even a crisp green salad to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, also complement the smoky paprika and melted cheese beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Cheddar Topping Recipe as part of a party platter alongside toothpicks for easy snacking. They also work wonderfully nestled in a warm hoagie roll like an indulgent sandwich, or spooned over spaghetti for a rich, cheesy dinner twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They remain flavorful and juicy when reheated properly, so they’re perfect for weeknight meals or quick snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze fully cooked meatballs, cheddar topping and all, on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. This way, you always have a convenient cheesy treat ready to bake or microwave any time cravings hit.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheddar topping is bubbly again. You can also microwave them covered loosely with a damp paper towel, but the oven method keeps the texture ideal.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses for stuffing instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella melts wonderfully, feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Just make sure your chosen cheese melts well and complements the seasoning.
Is it necessary to use ground pork?
Nope, ground beef alone works beautifully. The ground pork just adds a bit of extra flavor and moisture, but this recipe is flexible and delicious with only beef.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes meal prep easier and lets the flavors meld even more.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?
Make sure to fully seal the meat around the cheese cubes, rolling tightly so there are no gaps. Using smaller cheese cubes also helps them stay contained.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing before baking?
Definitely! You can freeze raw meatballs arranged on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready, bake from frozen with a few extra minutes added to cooking time.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Cheddar Topping Recipe is an absolute joy to make and eat. It’s a warm, comforting dish that brings together hearty meat, melty cheese, and bold flavors in the perfect way. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, it’s sure to become a beloved classic. Give it a go, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
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Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Cheddar Topping Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 16 meatballs) 1x
Description
These Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are a delicious and comforting dish featuring juicy ground beef and pork meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and topped with melted cheddar. Baked to perfection, they make a perfect appetizer or main course that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese cubes (for stuffing)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined but avoid overworking the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the Meatballs: Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then carefully fold the meat around the cheese, sealing it completely. Roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes.
- Bake the Meatballs: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the mozzarella cheese inside has melted.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each meatball. Return the meatballs to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheddar cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the cheddar cheese has melted, take the meatballs out of the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve the meatballs hot as an appetizer or main dish and enjoy their cheesy, savory goodness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can substitute some or all of the ground pork with ground veal or turkey.
- If you prefer a milder taste, omit the smoked paprika or adjust the amount according to your preference.
- Make sure to seal the mozzarella cubes fully inside the meatballs to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
- Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- You can serve these meatballs with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
