Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
If you’re looking for a dinner that feels comforting and a little indulgent, these Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are exactly what we need. Juicy, flavorful beef meatballs are packed with herbs and spices, then filled with gooey sharp cheddar in the center. Once baked and served with warm marinara, they’re completely irresistible.
We love making these on busy weeknights because they come together quickly but still feel special. That melty cheese surprise in the middle gets everyone excited, and honestly, they disappear fast every single time we make them!
If you’re into meatball recipes like this, you’ll also want to check out our Garlic Honey Meatballs, Artichoke Meatballs in Garlic Sauce, and Slow Cooker Hawaiian Meatballs.
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy Center Surprise: Every bite has a gooey, melted cheddar middle that takes classic meatballs to the next level.
- Oven Baked: No frying required, just pop them in the oven for easy cleanup.
- Packed with Flavor: Garlic, parmesan, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs make these meatballs incredibly savory.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: They reheat beautifully and can be used in pasta, subs, or served on their own.
Ingredients
We’ve made this list to help you save time on your next trip to the grocery store. You can find the full amounts needed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
These meatballs start with ground beef as the base, combined with panko bread crumbs, egg, and a splash of half and half to keep them tender and juicy. Italian seasoning, onion powder, smoked paprika, garlic, chives, and parmesan build layers of flavor. The star of the show is the sharp cheddar cubes tucked inside each meatball, creating that melty center. Finally, everything is served with warm marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for the perfect finishing touch.
Variations
- Mozzarella Swap: Use small cubes of mozzarella for a classic stretchy cheese center.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- Ground Turkey Option: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook them in the air fryer at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes, checking for doneness.
Instructions
This is a quick overview of the steps needed to make this recipe. You can find the full instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Mix together the beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cream, seasonings, herbs, garlic, and parmesan.
- Then, scoop into equal portions and then flatten slightly.
- Place a cube of cheddar in the center and seal the meat around it. Arrange on the tray and bake until fully cooked.
- Heat marinara sauce and serve meatballs garnished with fresh parsley.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture or the meatballs can become dense.
- Make sure the cheese is fully sealed inside to prevent it from leaking out while baking.
- Use a cookie scoop to keep all the meatballs the same size for even cooking.
- Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking to help the juices redistribute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about this recipe? Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions.
They should be cooked through with no pink remaining in the center. You can slice one open to check or use a meat thermometer (internal temp should reach 160°F).
Yes! You can form the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Absolutely. Freeze them after baking and cooling completely for best results.
They’re great over spaghetti, in a toasted sub roll, alongside mashed potatoes, or served as an appetizer with toothpicks.
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📖Recipe
Want to make this recipe? Print the recipe card below, or pin this recipe, so you can find it later.
Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- small cookie scoop
- baking tray
- Aluminum foil
- Cooking spray
- knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 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
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko bread crumbs, egg, half and half, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, onion powder, smoked paprika, chives, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until thoroughly combined.
- Use a small cookie scoop to portion the mixture into 16 equal-sized balls.
- Flatten each ball slightly into a disc shape. Place a small cube of cheddar cheese in the center and wrap the meat mixture around the cheese, sealing it completely. Roll back into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Heat the marinara sauce and serve with the meatballs. Garnish with parsley and additional chives if desired.
Disclaimer
Any nutritional data I provide is an approximation and actual dietary information can vary based on ingredients and proportion sizes.
