Is it better to bake or fry meatballs?

Baking is usually better for easy mozzarella stuffed meatballs. It’s less messy, more hands-off, and helps keep the cheesy center from spilling out. You also get even browning without constantly flipping them.

How to make homemade cheese stuffed meatballs?

It’s simple. Start with your seasoned ground meat mixture. Press a cube or pearl of mozzarella into the center of each portion, seal it tightly, then bake or slow-cook. Chill your cheese before stuffing—it melts slower and prevents leaks.

Can I put mozzarella cheese in meatballs?

Absolutely. Mozzarella is ideal because of its mild flavor and perfect melt. Just make sure to form your meatball tightly around the cheese so it stays enclosed during cooking.

How to bake meatballs at temperature?

Bake mozzarella stuffed meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes. Always check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F for safe and delicious results.

How long to bake meatballs at 180 degrees?

At 180°C (356°F), bake for 25–30 minutes. The slightly lower heat gives you tender meatballs and time for the cheese inside to melt evenly.

How long to bake meatballs at 200 degrees?

At 200°C (392°F), your meatballs will be ready in 15–20 minutes. This higher heat crisps the outside while keeping the inside gooey and rich.

Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs – Best Recipe & Tips (2025)

Name: Easy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain); 1 large egg; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 mozzarella cubes or pearls (cold); 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing or drizzling); 2 cups marinara sauce

Description

These easy mozzarella stuffed meatballs are juicy, cheesy, and baked to perfection. Each bite delivers rich Italian flavor with a gooey mozzarella surprise inside. Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)
1 large egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
12 mozzarella cubes or pearls (cold)
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing or drizzling)
2 cups marinara sauce

Ingredients for easy mozzarella stuffed meatballs

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
Divide the mixture into 12 portions. Flatten each slightly, place a mozzarella cube in the center, and form into a ball, sealing the edges tightly.
Arrange meatballs on the baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 18–20 minutes until browned and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
If desired, simmer the baked meatballs in warm marinara sauce for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Serve hot with pasta, on subs, or as appetizers with toothpicks.

Stuffing meatballs with mozzarella cheese

Notes

Chill mozzarella before stuffing to prevent melting too quickly.

You can use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.

Freeze raw or cooked easy mozzarella stuffed meatballs in airtight bags for up to 3 months.

For a slow cooker version, place meatballs in marinara and cook on low for 4–5 hours.

Great to pair with garlic bread, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: per serving – 2 meatballs
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 380 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 16 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg