Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs are the perfect combination of juicy turkey, gooey mozzarella cheese, and savory seasonings. This easy recipe delivers irresistible results, whether you serve them over pasta, as a hearty appetizer, or smothered in marinara sauce. With a melty cheese center and perfectly seasoned meatball, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Now, let me show you how you can make these incredible stuffed meatballs in just a few simple steps!
Why I Love This Recipe
Stuffed meatballs are one of my go-to recipes for a cozy dinner or an impressive appetizer. The combination of juicy ground turkey, fragrant herbs, and molten mozzarella cheese is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, making them a lighter yet equally indulgent treat. What I love most is the versatility—these meatballs pair beautifully with pasta, zucchini noodles, or crusty bread. They’re also perfect for meal prep, reheating wonderfully for lunches throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create these delicious meatballs:
- Ground Turkey (1.98 lbs): A lean yet flavorful option. You can also substitute with ground beef or pork for a richer flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese Ball: Cut into small cubes for a gooey cheese center. Look for fresh mozzarella for best results.
- White Onion (1): Finely diced for sweetness and texture.
- Bread Crumbs (½ cup): Helps bind the meatballs together. Panko works great for a lighter texture.
- Eggs (2, beaten): Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): For that irresistible aromatic flavor.
- Dried Basil & Oregano (2 tsp each): These Italian herbs add depth and classic flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle umami kick.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Season generously to taste.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): For extra savory richness in the meat mixture.
Pro Tip:
Keep your mozzarella cubes cold before stuffing—it makes them easier to handle and ensures a melty center when baked.
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein Swap: Use lean ground beef, pork, or even a mix of meats for a richer flavor.
- Cheese Variety: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a fun twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a binder.
- Herb Boost: Add fresh parsley or thyme for an extra herby punch.
Expert Tips for Perfect Stuffed Meatballs
- Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat mixture can result in tough meatballs. Gently combine until just mixed.
- Keep Meatballs Uniform: Use an ice cream scoop for evenly sized meatballs, ensuring even cooking.
- Sealing the Cheese: Be sure to fully seal the meatball around the mozzarella to prevent it from oozing out during baking.
- Use a Thermometer: For perfectly cooked meatballs, use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.
How to Store and Make Ahead
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Arrange cooked meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or stovetop until warmed through.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
FAQ’s
Can I fry these meatballs instead of baking them?
Absolutely! Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook the meatballs over medium heat, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
What can I serve with mozzarella stuffed meatballs?
These meatballs pair perfectly with marinara sauce and spaghetti, or enjoy them with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella instead of cubes?
While cubes work best for a gooey center, you can use shredded mozzarella and form it into small balls for stuffing.
Final Thoughts
These Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs bring the ultimate comfort food to your table with minimal effort. The juicy turkey, gooey mozzarella center, and perfect blend of Italian seasonings make this dish a family favorite. Whether it’s a cozy dinner, meal prep, or a party appetizer, these meatballs deliver every time. Give them a try, and don’t forget to let me know in the comments how they turned out!
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Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1.98 lbs ground turkey
- 1 white onion
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 eggs beaten
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 mozzarella cheese ball cut into cubes
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375° F and prepare a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- In a large mixing bowl, add your minced turkey and break it up as much as possible with a wooden spoon.
- Add in your diced onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, grated parmesan and two eggs. Mix well to combine.
- Then, add in the dried basil, dried oregano, worcestershire sauce, salt & pepper. Mix, again to get all of the ingredients well combined.
- Using a spoon, ice cream scoop or your hands; shape the mixture into balls (a little bigger than a golf ball).
- Using your thumb, press down in the center of the meatball and place a piece of cheese inside. Close up my rolling the meatball or add more meat to seal the gap if needed. Repeat for the remainder of the turkey meatballs.
- Arrange on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached using a meat thermometer.
Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.
