These tasty queso-stuffed meatballs are like little flavor bombs! Made with juicy ground meat and gooey cheese, they’re perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun snack.
Who can resist a meatball with melty cheese in the middle? I like to serve mine with some marinara and crusty bread. It’s a great way to impress your family or friends! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is classic here, but for more flavor, you can mix half beef with half ground pork. Chicken or turkey is great too for a lighter option!
Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs, but you can swap them for panko for extra crunch. For a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
Queso Fresco or Mozzarella: Queso fresco is ideal for that creamy center, but mozzarella is an excellent substitute. You could also use cheddar for a sharper flavor.
Marinara Sauce: I love homemade marinara for its fresh taste, but any store-bought brand works in a pinch. Check the labels to avoid added sugars or preservatives if you’re health-conscious.
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Tender?
Keeping meatballs tender is all about not overmixing when you combine your ingredients. Mixing gently helps maintain a nice texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use your hands to gently mix the ground meat with other ingredients until just combined. Less is more!
- When shaping the meatballs, work quickly but carefully to avoid compacting the mixture too much.
- Cooking them on medium heat keeps them from drying out. Brown them on all sides, then let them simmer in the sauce.
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
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 oz queso fresco or mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes for stuffing
For Cooking:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner that’s both quick and satisfying. You’ll spend a little time mixing, shaping, and cooking, and soon you’ll be enjoying these tasty meatballs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to bring everything together gently. Remember, the goal is to mix just until combined to keep your meatballs tender!
2. Form the Meatballs:
Take a small amount of the meat mixture, about the size of a golf ball. Flatten it in your palm and place a small cube of queso fresco or mozzarella in the center. Carefully fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.
3. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully, making sure they aren’t crowded in the pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are nicely browned on all sides. Don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked through yet; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
4. Simmer in Marinara Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet around the meatballs. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese inside is bubbling and gooey.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, garnish the meatballs with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve them hot with crusty bread, pasta, or even on their own. Enjoy your delicious queso-stuffed meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as these meats can sometimes cook a bit faster than beef.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Queso Fresco?
If you can’t find queso fresco, mozzarella works perfectly for a similar gooey texture. Cheddar or pepper jack can also be fun options if you want a different flavor kick!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the meatballs a day in advance and store them uncooked in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they go straight from the fridge to the skillet!