Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs Flavorful and Simple Recipe
Get ready to impress your dinner guests with my Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs! This simple recipe mixes ground beef and chicken, packed with gooey cheese and fresh herbs. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how full of flavor they become. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Cheese and Seasoning Components
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh Ingredients
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
For cheesy stuffed meatballs, choose quality ingredients. Fresh ground meat gives the best taste. I like a mix of beef and chicken for richness and moisture. Breadcrumbs hold everything together and add a nice texture. Look for Italian-seasoned ones if you want extra flavor.
Cheese is the star of this dish. Use mozzarella for its gooey melt. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a savory kick. Don’t forget to season well with salt and black pepper. Fresh parsley brightens the dish and makes it look pretty. Garlic brings depth, while onion powder adds sweetness.Enjoy gathering these ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Combine Ingredients
First, mix the meat and seasonings. In a large bowl, add 1 lb of ground beef and 1/2 lb of ground chicken. Next, sprinkle in 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of finely chopped parsley. Then, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Don’t forget to crack in 1 large egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands to mix everything well. Make sure all the ingredients blend evenly.
Form the Meatballs
Now, it’s time to shape the meatballs. Take a handful of the meat mixture, about the size of a golf ball. Gently flatten it in your palm. For the cheesy surprise, place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of the flattened meat. Carefully wrap the meat around the cheese. Roll it back into a ball shape, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat this until you have around 12-15 stuffed meatballs.
Cooking the Meatballs
Start cooking by browning the meatballs in olive oil. Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the meatballs to the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes. Turn occasionally so they get a nice golden-brown crust on all sides.
Next, simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce. After browning, carefully pour 1 jar of marinara sauce over the meatballs. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let them simmer for 15-20 minutes. This step helps the flavors mix and the cheese melt into gooey perfection.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Texture and Flavor
To keep your meatballs moist, use a mix of ground beef and ground chicken. The chicken adds juiciness. You can also add a bit of milk to the mix. This will help keep the meatballs tender.
For seasoning, taste your mixture before cooking. If you want more flavor, add more garlic or Italian herbs. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
Cooking Techniques
For crispy exteriors, heat your olive oil until it shimmers. This means it’s hot enough to brown the meatballs well. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
To ensure even cooking, turn the meatballs gently every few minutes. This way, all sides get that lovely golden color. Simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce after browning. This step helps them cook through while soaking in flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish your cheesy stuffed meatballs with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan. This adds a fresh look and taste.
For side dishes, serve them with crusty bread or a side of spaghetti. A simple green salad can also balance the meal nicely.
Variations
Different Meats
You can change the meats in cheesy stuffed meatballs. Ground beef works great, but you can also use ground chicken. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey. It will still taste good and stay moist. Pork is another tasty choice. Each type of meat adds a unique flavor. Feel free to mix two types of meat, like beef and pork. This mix can make your meatballs even better.
Cheese Options
The cheese inside these meatballs is important. Mozzarella is classic, but you can switch it up. Try using cheddar for a sharper taste. Feta cheese adds a nice tang. If you want something different, use pepper jack for a spicy kick. To add more flavor, mix herbs into the cheese. Try basil or oregano for a fresh touch. You can also add garlic to the cheese for extra zest.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free option, replace regular breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal. Both work well and keep the meatballs tender. For lower-calorie meatballs, use less cheese or leaner meats. You can also skip the breadcrumbs entirely and use oats instead. This will cut calories and add fiber. These adjustments help you enjoy this dish, no matter your diet.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
Leftovers from cheesy stuffed meatballs last about 3-4 days in the fridge. To store them, place the meatballs in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents any odors. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in the microwave or on the stove.
Freezing Meatballs
You can freeze cooked meatballs for later use. First, let them cool completely. Then, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. For reheating, you can thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, heat them gently in a skillet with some marinara sauce. This keeps them tasty and moist.
Meal Prep Suggestions
If you want quick meals, make meatballs in advance. You can prepare them up to a day before cooking. Just form the meatballs and place them on a tray. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. This way, you can cook them when you’re ready. For pre-cooking storage, you can also freeze the formed meatballs. Just follow the freezing steps mentioned earlier. This makes dinner easy on busy nights.
FAQs
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
To ensure your meatballs are safe to eat, check the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer. The safe temperature for ground beef and chicken is 165°F (75°C). When the meatballs reach this temperature, they are fully cooked. Check the center of one meatball to confirm. If it’s not quite there, let them cook a bit longer.
Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake these meatballs. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. You may want to flip them halfway through for even cooking. Baking is a healthier option and keeps the kitchen cool.
What sauce pairs best with cheesy stuffed meatballs?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice. It complements the cheesy flavors well. You can also try Alfredo or a spicy arrabbiata sauce. For a twist, make a garlic butter sauce. Each sauce adds a unique taste to your meatballs. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite!
How to make cheesy stuffed meatballs spicy?
To add heat, mix in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. You can also use spicy sausage instead of regular ground meat. Another option is to serve the meatballs with a hot sauce on the side. Adjust the spice level to your liking, making each bite exciting.
Can I use pre-made meat for this recipe?
You can use pre-seasoned meat for convenience. However, be cautious with the flavors. Pre-made options can be saltier or spicier than you expect. Check the ingredients and adjust your seasonings in the recipe. This way, you control the taste while saving time.
You’ve learned how to make cheesy stuffed meatballs from scratch. We covered the best ingredients and cooking methods. We also shared tips to perfect texture and flavor.
Now you’re ready to create delicious meatballs your family will love. Remember, there are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking journey and impress everyone with your homemade cheesy stuffed meatballs.
![- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - 4 ready-made waffles (or homemade) - 2 tablespoons honey - Maple syrup, for drizzling - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish In this easy chicken and waffles recipe, you start with two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Soak them in one cup of buttermilk. This step makes the chicken juicy and tender. Next, prepare the breading mix. You need one cup of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of baking powder, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, half a teaspoon of garlic powder, and half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. For the waffles, you can use four ready-made waffles or make your own. To finish, you will need two tablespoons of honey and maple syrup for drizzling. Chop some fresh parsley for garnish. This dish combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite for many. Check out the Full Recipe to see how to put it all together. - Immerse chicken in buttermilk. - Cover and refrigerate. Start by taking two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Place them in a bowl and pour in one cup of buttermilk. Make sure the chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set it in the fridge. Let it sit for at least one hour, or overnight for the best flavor. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds a nice tang. - Combine flour and spices. - Mix to create a uniform dry mixture. Next, grab a shallow dish. In it, combine one cup of all-purpose flour with one teaspoon of baking powder, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, half a teaspoon of garlic powder, and half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is even. This blend will give your chicken a delicious crust. - Dredge marinated chicken in flour mixture. - Shake off excess flour. After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Let the extra buttermilk drip off. Now, dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Make sure to coat both sides well. Once coated, shake off any excess flour. This step is key for achieving a crispy texture. - Heat oil in a skillet. - Fry chicken until golden-brown. In a large skillet, heat about half an inch of oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering. Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet. Fry each piece for about 5-7 minutes on each side. They should turn a beautiful golden-brown color. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up excess oil. - Toast waffles according to instructions. While the chicken fries, it’s time to warm the waffles. You can use ready-made waffles or make your own if you prefer. Just toast them according to the package instructions until they are crispy and heated through. This will balance the hot chicken nicely. - Layer waffle and chicken. - Drizzle with honey and maple syrup. To assemble, take a warm waffle and place it on a serving plate. Top it with a piece of the golden fried chicken. Now, for the fun part! Drizzle honey generously over the chicken. Then, add a touch of maple syrup according to your taste. This sweet and savory combo makes every bite a delight. - Ensure oil is hot before frying. Hot oil makes the chicken crispy. - Don’t overcrowd the skillet. This helps keep the oil hot and even. - Stack chicken slightly off-center. This adds height and looks appealing. - Garnish with parsley and drizzle syrup. It gives color and extra flavor. - Consider brining chicken overnight. This makes it juicier and more flavorful. - Experiment with different spices. Try herbs or blends for new tastes. For a detailed guide, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can switch things up with grilled chicken instead of fried. Grilled chicken has a nice smoky flavor. Plus, it's a lighter option. I love using chicken thighs for this dish. They are more juicy and tender than breasts. Thighs also add great flavor to the meal. For the waffles, try adding flavors like cinnamon or vanilla. These will give your dish a fun twist. You can also make mini waffles. They are perfect for a bite-sized treat. Kids love them, and they are easy to share. If you want to change the sweet element, try agave syrup instead of honey. It’s a nice alternative for a sweeter touch. You can also use a fruit compote. Fresh berries or peaches work great and add a fruity burst. These options make your chicken and waffles even more special. For the full recipe, check out the ingredients and steps above! After you savor your chicken and waffles, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the food fresh and safe. The dish is best consumed within 2 days. If you wait too long, the taste and texture will suffer. You can freeze the cooked chicken and waffles for later. Be sure to store them separately. This way, the waffles do not get soggy. When you are ready to eat, reheat the chicken and waffles in the oven for best results. This helps keep everything crispy and tasty. When it's time to enjoy leftovers, use an oven or air fryer to reheat the chicken. This method preserves the crispy coating. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the chicken chewy and wet. Keeping the texture nice is key to enjoying your meal again. To make homemade waffles, start with a simple batter. Mix together: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 tablespoon sugar - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup milk - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons melted butter Combine all the dry ingredients in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk the wet ingredients. Mix them together until just combined. Cook in a preheated waffle maker for about 5 minutes until golden brown. You can also use my [Full Recipe] for a quick option with ready-made waffles. Yes! You can explore using turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Turkey breast works well as a leaner choice. For tofu, press it to remove excess moisture, then marinate like the chicken. This adds great flavor and keeps it moist. To get crispy chicken, keep the oil hot. Heat it to about 350°F before frying. This helps form a crust. Don't overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches if needed. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Yes, meal prepping is easy! You can marinate the chicken in advance. Also, cook and freeze the chicken separately from the waffles. Store in airtight containers. This meal stays tasty for up to two days in the fridge. You can spice up your chicken with different seasonings. Try adding more cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for heat. Top your waffles with fresh fruit or whipped cream. Maple syrup adds sweetness, but feel free to experiment! For sides, think about fresh fruit or a light salad. Sliced strawberries or mixed berries add a nice touch. A simple green salad can balance the dish’s richness. You can also serve it with sweet potato fries for a fun twist. You learned how to make a tasty chicken and waffles dish. We covered marinating chicken, preparing breading, and frying until golden-brown. You also saw tips for storage and variations. Don't be afraid to try different spices or use grilled chicken. This dish is fun and delicious. Enjoy making it and sharing with friends!](https://goldendishy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/c6fcab88-53c4-4cda-8439-7edbb7c77c72-768x768.webp)
![- 12 oz fettuccine or pappardelle pasta - 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed - 1 tablespoon olive oil The base of this dish is fettuccine or pappardelle pasta. I love these shapes as they hold the creamy sauce well. You will also need fresh butternut squash. It gives the dish a warm color and sweet flavor. Using olive oil helps with roasting and adds richness to the pasta. - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg Onions and garlic add depth to the sauce. Dicing the onion makes it cook evenly. Minced garlic gives a punch of flavor. Nutmeg brings warmth and a hint of spice, making the dish cozy and inviting. - 1 cup vegetable broth - 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a non-vegan option) - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) For the sauce, you need vegetable broth for a savory base. Coconut milk adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness. If you prefer, heavy cream works too. Adding Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor, but it's optional. - Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste - Fresh sage leaves for garnish Season with salt and cracked pepper to bring everything together. Fresh sage leaves add a lovely touch. They not only look nice but also add an aromatic flavor that complements the dish well. These ingredients create a lovely balance of flavors in the creamy butternut squash pasta. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to make this delicious meal. - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Toss the cubed butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper. - Spread the squash on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes. The squash should be tender and have a light caramel color. - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. - Add the pasta and cook it as per package instructions. - Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. This helps adjust your sauce later. - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. - Add diced onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. - Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. - Blend the roasted squash with the sautéed onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender. - Return the blended sauce to the skillet and heat on low. - Add the cooked pasta and gradually mix in the reserved pasta water. - Stir well until the pasta is coated with the sauce. - If you like, stir in the Parmesan cheese. - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Plate the pasta in shallow bowls for a nice look. - Garnish with fresh sage leaves and drizzle a little olive oil on top. For a detailed guide, check out the Full Recipe. Enjoy your creamy butternut squash pasta! To get a creamy consistency, blend the roasted butternut squash well. You want it smooth. Use an immersion blender for easy mixing. If it’s too thick, add a splash of pasta water. This helps the sauce cling to the noodles. Want to add more flavor? Try spices like cinnamon or a pinch of chili powder. Fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can boost taste too. You can also add veggies like spinach or kale for added nutrition. They cook quickly and blend well with the sauce. Pair creamy butternut squash pasta with a simple salad. A mix of greens with a light vinaigrette works well. For drinks, a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish nicely. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon. These sides enhance the meal and make it even more enjoyable. For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can easily adjust creamy butternut squash pasta to fit different diets. For a vegan option, swap heavy cream with coconut milk and skip the cheese. This change still gives you a creamy sauce that tastes great. If you need gluten-free pasta, use rice or corn-based noodles. These options keep the dish light and tasty. Experimenting with different ingredients can make this dish exciting. Instead of butternut squash, try using acorn or delicata squash. Each type has its unique flavor and texture. For cheese, you can use feta for a tangy twist or goat cheese for a creamy finish. These swaps let you create new flavor combinations that keep things fresh. To make this dish more seasonal, add roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds color. Making creamy butternut squash pasta in fall is perfect. You can enjoy the warmth of the season with every bite. Try using spices like cinnamon or cloves for a cozy feel. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide and enjoy the rich flavors! To store leftover creamy butternut squash pasta, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best. Make sure to seal them tightly to keep the air out. This helps keep the pasta fresh and tasty. Store the container in the fridge for up to four days. Yes, you can freeze this dish! To do this, use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It is best to freeze the pasta without the cheese added. This helps keep the texture right. When you are ready to eat, move the container to the fridge to thaw overnight. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help it warm up evenly. In the fridge, creamy butternut squash pasta lasts for about four days. After that, the taste and quality may drop. Always check for signs of spoilage. If the pasta smells sour or has a strange texture, it’s best to throw it away. Enjoy your creamy butternut squash pasta fresh! For the full recipe, visit [Full Recipe]. It takes about 40 minutes to make creamy butternut squash pasta. The prep time is 10 minutes. Cooking the dish takes about 30 minutes. You will spend 20-25 minutes roasting the squash. Boiling the pasta adds another 10-12 minutes. This dish is quick and easy for a weeknight meal! Yes, you can use many types of pasta. Fettuccine and pappardelle work well for this sauce. You can also try penne or rigatoni for a fun twist. Each shape holds the sauce differently, so feel free to experiment! Absolutely! To make it nut-free, use coconut milk instead of cream. If you want a non-vegan option, use heavy cream instead. You can skip any nuts in the garnish. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious without nuts. You can serve this dish with many sides. A crisp green salad pairs well. Try a side of garlic bread for extra comfort. For dessert, pumpkin pie or apple crisp can be great choices. These options enhance the cozy vibe of the meal. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to the pasta. This helps keep the sauce creamy. Stir until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but stir halfway for even heating. Enjoy your leftovers just as much! This creamy butternut squash pasta combines hearty flavors and texture. We roasted the squash and blended it with garlic and onion to create a rich sauce. You learned how to make it creamy, adjust seasoning, and even swap ingredients. In the end, this dish is versatile and perfect for any meal. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sharing this delightful recipe with friends and family.](https://goldendishy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/000431ad-92db-4f90-88d6-bb841745a08c-768x768.webp)
