Cheesy Beef Meatballs (with Gooey Mozzarella Centers)
June 21, 2025 • 0 comments
Get ready for extra cheesy and gooey beef meatballs! Seriously, you won't be able to resist how delicious and cheesy these are.
We loved them with some Alfredo sauce, but you can enjoy them as an appetizer, or tossed with your favorite pasta.
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 12
Ingredients
- (1 lb) Ground Beef
- (1 large egg) 1 dozen - Brown Honest Yolk Chicken Eggs
- (1/4 cup cooked, chopped (2-3 slices)) Naked Bacon AKA Sliced Pork Belly
- (1/2 cup, shredded plus 12 small cubes for stuffing) 8oz A2/A2 Mozzarella Pressed Cheese
- (1/2 tsp) Fine Celtic Sea Salt, 8oz
- (1/2 tsp) Black Pepper
- (1/2 tsp) Garlic Powder
- (1/2 tsp) Onion Powder
- (Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish) (Optional)
Directions
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix the meatball mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cooked bacon, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Use clean hands to gently mix everything together until well combined. Avoid over-mixing... it keeps the meatballs tender.
Form the meatballs:
- Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions (each about 2 inches wide or ~1.3 oz if using a scale).
- Take each portion and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place 1 cube of mozzarella in the center.
- Gently wrap the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball, making sure the cheese is fully sealed inside.
Bake:
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake for 18 to 25 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temp should reach 160°F and lightly browned.
Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy that gooey melted cheese center!
Tips:
Chill the mozzarella cubes in the freezer for 10 minutes before stuffing. It helps keep them from leaking out. (something we learned after creating this recipe haha)
Serve with pasta, in subs, or over mashed potatoes or cauliflower for a comforting meal. These make great appetizers too!
