These queso-stuffed meatballs are a fun twist on a classic dish! Juicy meatballs are filled with gooey cheese, making each bite a delightful surprise. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a little cheese peekaboo? 😄 I like to serve them with some marinara sauce for dipping—it just takes them to the next level of tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A pound of ground beef is great, but a mix with pork adds extra flavor and juiciness. If you’re leaning toward a leaner option, turkey or chicken can also work well.
Breadcrumbs: I used plain breadcrumbs, but panko gives a crunchier texture! If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Queso Fresco or Mozzarella: Queso fresco gives a nice flavor, but if you can’t find it, mozzarella works perfectly for that stretchy cheese goodness! Feel free to try pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought sauce is convenient, but homemade is always better! You can also use BBQ sauce for a fun twist.
What’s the Best Way to Form Meatballs That Don’t Fall Apart?
Getting the right texture in your meatballs is key. Combining your ingredients gently is crucial, as overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Here’s how to make them hold together:
- Make sure not to pack your meat mixture too tightly; just mix enough to combine.
- When shaping your meatballs, keep them slightly loose so they can expand while cooking.
- If you’re worried about them falling apart, a bit of extra egg or even a splash of milk can help bind them.
Always brown them in the skillet first to create a crispy outer layer, sealing in all that deliciousness before baking!
How to Make Delicious 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
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 4 oz queso fresco or mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (for stuffing)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 25 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes to enjoy these cheesy, delicious meatballs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until everything is just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Take a small handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of queso fresco or mozzarella in the center, then carefully mold the meat around the cheese, forming a nice round meatball. Repeat this until all the meat mixture is used.
4. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. They don’t need to be fully cooked through, just nicely browned!
5. Bake the Meatballs:
Transfer the browned meatballs to the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over and around the meatballs. Make sure they’re well-coated, as this will keep them moist while baking.
6. Final Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese inside is ooey-gooey. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the meatballs from the oven and garnish with extra chopped parsley. Serve hot with additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
These queso-stuffed meatballs make a perfect appetizer or a hearty main dish. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a lighter option. Just keep in mind they may result in a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re great reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just sprinkle a little extra marinara over them to keep them moist!
Can I Freeze These Meatballs?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs before baking. Just layer them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
What Can I Serve With Queso-Stuffed Meatballs?
They pair beautifully with spaghetti, rice, or even a side salad. For a fun twist, try serving them in sliders or as part of a meatball sub with toasted bread and extra marinara!
