These queso-stuffed meatballs are a fun twist on a classic dish. Juicy meatballs are filled with melted cheese, making every bite creamy and cheesy!
Every time I make these, my family goes wild! They love the surprise of gooey cheese inside. Plus, they’re perfect for game day or any gathering—who can resist? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use a mix of ground beef and pork for added flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work too, but they might be drier, so consider adding a bit of olive oil.
Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs shine here, giving a nice texture. If you’re gluten-free, swap for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats, which do the job well!
Queso Fresco or Mozzarella: Queso fresco provides a nice tang, and mozzarella offers that delightful stretch. If you can’t find queso fresco, feel free to use ricotta or even cream cheese for creaminess.
Marinara Sauce: Homemade sauce is great, but store-bought works just as well. For a kick, try adding a splash of red pepper flakes or fresh basil to the sauce!
How Do You Ensure the Cheese Stays Inside the Meatballs?
A common struggle is keeping the cheese sealed inside the meatballs. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use the right amount of meat—don’t skimp! A generous portion helps seal the cheese.
- Flatten the meat mixture into a disc, place the cheese cube in the center, and fold the edges over tightly, making sure no cheese is peeking out.
- Roll the meatball gently but firmly to ensure a good seal. If needed, you can pinch the seams closed.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have delicious queso-stuffed meatballs that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Queso-stuffed Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 4 oz queso fresco or mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes for stuffing
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Additional shredded cheese (mozzarella or Parmesan) for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. You’ll spend some time rolling the meatballs and browning them, but the best part is letting them simmer in the sauce to develop those amazing flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well until just combined, but don’t overmix—this keeps the meatballs tender and juicy!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Take a small handful of the meat mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of queso fresco or mozzarella in the center. Carefully fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a meatball, sealing the cheese completely inside. Repeat this step with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes.
3. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point; we just want a nice golden-brown color.
4. Simmer in Sauce:
After the meatballs are browned, if there’s excess oil in the pan, carefully remove it. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese inside is melted. Yum!
5. Add Cheese Topping (Optional):
If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese on top of the meatballs. Cover once more until the cheese melts, creating an even more delicious layer!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve those tasty queso-stuffed meatballs hot, garnished with more chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. They’re fantastic on their own or with some crusty bread or pasta to soak up the sauce. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
This recipe yields rich, juicy meatballs with a delightful cheesy surprise inside, perfect as an appetizer or for a cozy family dinner!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative, but you may want to add a little extra olive oil to ensure the meatballs stay moist and flavorful!
How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Leaking Out?
To keep the cheese inside, make sure to completely seal the meatball around the cheese when rolling. If the meat feels too sticky, you can slightly dampen your hands or coat them with a bit of oil to help shape the meatballs easily.
Can I Prepare These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them uncooked if you’d like. Just arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months! When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight before continuing with the recipe.
What Should I Do with Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop in some marinara sauce to keep them juicy!