Baked Meatballs with Mozzarella: A Cheesy, Flavor-Packed Favorite

Few dishes can match the comfort and savory goodness of baked meatballs with mozzarella. These meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and filled with gooey melted cheese, making them a perfect family dinner, party appetizer, or meal prep option.

The key to achieving the perfect cheesy meatballs lies in choosing the right mozzarella. Different types of mozzarella affect the melt and texture, so it’s worth exploring various mozzarella options to find the best one for your recipe. Additionally, when handling raw meat, it’s crucial to follow safe cooking temperature guidelines to ensure your meatballs are cooked thoroughly while remaining tender and moist.

Now, let’s dive into the best baked meatball recipe that is guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Meatball Mixture

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg (acts as a binder)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little spice)
¼ cup whole milk (keeps the meatballs moist)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Mozzarella Filling

4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cubed

Tomato Sauce

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 small onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, and seasonings.
Mix gently with your hands—overmixing will result in tough meatballs.
Take a small amount of the mixture, flatten it, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center.
Carefully seal the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball.

2. Make the Tomato Sauce

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft.
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Bake the Meatballs

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pour half of the tomato sauce into a baking dish.
Place the meatballs in the dish and cover with the remaining sauce.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh basil and more Parmesan cheese.
Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love These Meatballs

✅ Juicy & flavorful – The right balance of meat, seasonings, and cheese.
✅ Cheesy center – Each bite is filled with melty mozzarella.
✅ Healthier option – Baked, not fried.
✅ Perfect for meal prep – Freeze and reheat easily.

Best Ways to Serve These Meatballs

Classic Pasta Dish – Serve over spaghetti for an authentic Italian experience.
Meatball Subs – Load into a toasted hoagie with provolone cheese.
Low-Carb Option – Pair with zucchini noodles or a fresh salad.
Appetizer-Style – Serve with toothpicks and marinara for dipping.

Expert Tips for the Best Meatballs

✔ Use a mix of meats – Combining beef and pork enhances flavor.
✔ Don’t overmix – Mix gently to keep meatballs tender.
✔ Choose the right mozzarella – Low-moisture mozzarella melts best.
✔ Bake, don’t fry – Keeps them light and juicy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Overstuffing with cheese – Too much mozzarella may cause leaks.
❌ Skipping the breadcrumbs – They help retain moisture.
❌ Overcooking – Bake just until done to keep them tender.
❌ Using lean meat only – Some fat is essential for juiciness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep them up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate them before baking.

2. How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure the mozzarella is completely sealed within the meat.

3. Can I freeze baked meatballs?

Yes! Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

4. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meatballs first, then cook them in sauce on low for 4-5 hours.

5. Are there vegetarian alternatives?

Try using plant-based ground meat or mushroom-lentil blends for a meat-free version.

Final Thoughts

These baked meatballs with mozzarella are the perfect blend of hearty, cheesy, and savory flavors. Whether served with pasta, bread, or enjoyed on their own, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out! ️

Thank you for following me on Facebook & pinterest
for more recipes click here