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.
You can find the full recipe at the end. 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.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
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. For more ideas, check out the Full Recipe for variations!
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.
For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs section!
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. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
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.
![To make the spicy honey garlic shrimp, gather these items: - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 3 tablespoons honey - 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice tolerance) - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish) - Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste You can swap some ingredients if needed: - Instead of honey, try maple syrup for a different sweetness. - Use tamari if you need a gluten-free option for soy sauce. - For garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch. - You can replace shrimp with chicken or tofu if you prefer. A serving of spicy honey garlic shrimp has about: - Calories: 220 - Protein: 25g - Fat: 8g - Carbohydrates: 10g - Fiber: 0g - Sodium: 600mg This dish offers a good amount of protein while keeping the carbs low. The honey adds sweetness, and the shrimp provide healthy nutrients. For the full recipe, check the link provided. To start, gather your ingredients. This makes cooking easier and faster. You need: - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 3 tablespoons honey - 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish) - Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste In a medium bowl, mix the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ginger. Whisk it well. Set this aside to let the flavors blend. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until it shimmers. While it heats, season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Add the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring. This helps them turn pink and golden on one side. Use tongs to flip the shrimp over. Pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes. The shrimp should be fully cooked and glossy with sauce. Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the green onions and sesame seeds over the shrimp. This adds flavor and crunch. If you use smaller shrimp, reduce the cooking time. Cook them for 1-2 minutes on each side. For jumbo shrimp, increase cooking time to about 3-4 minutes per side. Always check if they turn pink and are opaque. This means they are fully cooked. Enjoy this spicy honey garlic shrimp dish, and don’t forget to check the Full Recipe for more details! To get the best shrimp, look for large, firm shrimp. They should feel smooth and have a fresh smell. Avoid shrimp that smell like ammonia or are slimy. Fresh shrimp have a slight sheen and a pink color. If buying frozen shrimp, check for ice crystals. This means they may have thawed and refrozen. Cook shrimp quickly using high heat. This keeps them juicy and tender. Start with a hot pan and add oil. Add shrimp in a single layer; avoid crowding. Cook for just 2-3 minutes on one side until pink. Flip and then add your sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through. To boost flavor, add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. You can also use lime juice for a zesty kick. For extra heat, toss in more red pepper flakes. Want more depth? Try adding a splash of rice vinegar or a bit of sesame oil. These small changes can make your shrimp pop with flavor. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can easily add veggies to this dish. Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli work great. Start by sautéing the vegetables in the skillet before adding the shrimp. This way, they cook together perfectly. Toss them in with the shrimp and sauce for a balanced meal. The veggies soak up the sweet and spicy sauce, making each bite even better. Grilling is a fantastic way to enjoy this shrimp. Marinate the shrimp in the honey garlic sauce for about 30 minutes. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Skewer the shrimp and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll get a nice char and smoky flavor. This method is perfect for summer cookouts or outdoor gatherings. Turn this dish into tacos for a fun twist. Use corn tortillas or flour ones, whichever you prefer. Cook the shrimp as usual, then fill each taco with them. Top with cabbage, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. The crunch from the cabbage and creaminess from the avocado balance the heat. Enjoy these tacos with your friends for a tasty meal. For the full recipe, check the section above. To keep your spicy honey garlic shrimp fresh, let it cool first. Place the shrimp in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy it again later. When you're ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them gently. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the shrimp moist. Stir it often so it heats evenly. This will help maintain its flavor and texture. If you want to store shrimp longer, freezing is a great option. First, cool the shrimp completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out any air before sealing it. You can keep it in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste. For the full recipe, check out the details to make this tasty dish! The best way to peel shrimp is to start at the head. Hold the body and gently pull off the shell. You can also pinch the tail to detach it. To devein, make a shallow cut along the back. Use a small knife or toothpick to pull out the dark vein. Rinse the shrimp under cold water after. This step helps clean them well. Yes, you can make Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp in advance. Cook the shrimp and sauce, then let them cool. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat them in a skillet. This helps keep their flavor bright and tasty. You can serve Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp with several delicious sides. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice. It soaks up the sauce well. You can also try it with quinoa for a healthier option. Fresh veggies or a crisp salad add color and crunch. For more details on the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. In this blog post, we explored the complete guide to making Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp. We covered the ingredients, including substitutions and nutritional info. You learned step-by-step instructions for prep and cooking, adjusted for shrimp sizes. The tips shared help you choose the best shrimp and achieve perfect flavor. We also discussed tasty variations and storage tips for leftovers. Remember, you can find the full recipe for Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp linked in this post. Enjoy cooking and sharing your delicious dish!](https://goldendishy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cf05c4bf-72ca-4483-afe2-f2d6fc570350-768x768.webp)
![- Bell peppers and their colors: You can use four large bell peppers. Choose any color you like: red, yellow, green, or orange. Each adds its own taste and look to the dish. - Protein options: For the filling, you can select either ground turkey or beef. Both options will give you a hearty and satisfying meal. - Base ingredients: You will need one cup of cooked rice. You can use either white or brown rice. Additionally, add one cup of black beans, rinsed and drained, and one cup of corn. You can choose fresh, frozen, or canned corn. - Flavor enhancers: To boost the flavor, use one cup of salsa. You can pick your favorite brand or make it homemade. Also, add one tablespoon of taco seasoning. You can use store-bought or make your own. - Toppings: For the top of the peppers, use one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This cheese gives a nice gooey texture. You can add extra cheese for a more decadent touch. Fresh cilantro is a great garnish, adding color and a bit of fresh flavor. You can find the full recipe in the earlier sections of this article. Happy cooking! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the peppers evenly. While it heats, grab a baking dish. Set it aside for the stuffed peppers. Prepare the bell peppers by slicing the tops off. Remove the seeds and membranes, which can taste bitter. Brush each pepper with olive oil. This adds flavor and helps them roast nicely. Place the peppers upright in the baking dish. Cook the meat in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground turkey or beef. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Make sure it browns well. Once cooked, drain any excess fat. This keeps the filling lean and tasty. Next, add rice, black beans, corn, salsa, and seasoning to the skillet. Use 1 cup of cooked rice, 1 cup of rinsed black beans, and 1 cup of corn. Pour in 1 cup of salsa and 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Sprinkle some salt and pepper too. Mix everything well. Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes. This lets the flavors meld together, making the filling more delicious. Stir it occasionally to avoid sticking. Now, mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This makes the filling creamy and rich. Remove the skillet from heat. Stuff the peppers by spooning the mixture into each one. Press down gently to pack it in well. This ensures every bite is full of flavor. Top with more cheese by sprinkling the remaining cheddar over each filled pepper. It will melt and brown nicely while baking. Bake the peppers by covering the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the oven for 25-30 minutes. In the last 10 minutes, remove the foil. This helps the cheese bubble and turn golden. Once done, cool the peppers for a few minutes before serving. The filling will be very hot. If you like, garnish with fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Enjoy your taco stuffed bell peppers! Remember, you can find the full recipe above for all the details. How to choose fresh bell peppers: Pick bell peppers that are firm and shiny. Look for smooth skin with no blemishes. A good pepper feels heavy for its size. Colors like red, yellow, and orange are sweeter. Green peppers are a bit more bitter. All colors work well in this dish. Ensuring optimal cooking temperature and timing: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start cooking. This temperature helps the peppers cook evenly. Bake them for 25-30 minutes. In the last 10 minutes, uncover the dish to let the cheese brown. Suggestions for additional spices or ingredients: Add cumin or chili powder for an extra kick. You can also mix in diced tomatoes or jalapeños for more flavor. If you love heat, try adding some hot sauce to the filling. Offering a vegetarian option: For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for lentils or extra beans. You can use quinoa instead of rice for a healthy twist. This way, everyone can enjoy taco stuffed bell peppers! Plating ideas for presentation: Serve the peppers on a colorful platter. You can place them upright for a fun look. Add a dollop of sour cream on the side. Fresh cilantro on top adds a pop of green. Recommended side dishes for a complete meal: Pair your stuffed peppers with a fresh salad or tortilla chips. A side of guacamole or salsa also works great. These sides make the meal more fun and filling. For the full details, check out the Full Recipe! {{image_4}} You can mix up the protein in taco stuffed bell peppers. If you want a meatless option, try using black beans or lentils. They add great flavor and protein. For a twist, you can also use ground chicken or pork. When it comes to cheese, feel free to get creative. While cheddar is classic, you might try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra spice. You can also use cream cheese for a creamier filling. For salsa, any kind works! Chunky salsa adds texture, while smooth salsa blends in. You can even make your own with fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Grilling adds a smoky flavor. Wrap the stuffed peppers in foil and place them on the grill. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes until tender. You can also use a slow cooker. Place the stuffed peppers in the slow cooker with a bit of sauce. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours for a hands-off approach. If you need a quick meal, the microwave is your friend. Just place the stuffed peppers in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, checking for doneness. Using seasonal veggies makes your dish brighter. In summer, add fresh zucchini or corn. In fall, consider adding diced sweet potatoes or pumpkin. These add flavor and nutrition. For holidays, you can theme your peppers. For Halloween, use orange peppers and stuff them with spicy fillings. For Christmas, use red and green peppers and add festive spices. It’s a fun way to celebrate! For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. To store leftovers, place the stuffed peppers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure they cool down first to avoid steam build-up. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until heated through. For easy meal prep, you can cook a big batch in advance. Make the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for two days before baking. This way, you can have a quick meal ready on busy nights. You can also use different colors of bell peppers for fun and variety. What can I substitute for rice in the recipe? You can use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Quinoa adds protein and fiber. Cauliflower rice keeps it low-carb. Both options work well and keep the dish tasty. How do I know when the peppers are fully cooked? The peppers should be tender but not mushy. You can poke them with a fork. If they give easily but hold their shape, they are ready. The cheese should be melted and bubbly on top too! Caloric content and portion sizes Each stuffed pepper is about 300 calories. This includes the filling and toppings. If you use ground turkey, it may be lower in calories. Adjust the portion size based on your hunger. Health benefits of ingredients used Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C. They help boost your immune system. Black beans provide protein and fiber, promoting good digestion. Corn adds vitamins and a sweet crunch. What drinks pair well with taco stuffed bell peppers? A refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea works great. For adults, a light beer or margarita adds fun. Choose drinks that balance the spice of the peppers. Can taco stuffed bell peppers be made in advance for gatherings? Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge. Bake them when your guests arrive. They will taste fresh and hot from the oven! For the full recipe, check the earlier section. Taco stuffed bell peppers are fun and easy to make. We covered the key ingredients, steps, and helpful tips for a great dish. You learned how to mix flavors and pack ingredients for maximum yum. With ideas for storage and meal prep, you’re ready to enjoy these peppers anytime. Get creative with variations to keep things fresh. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering, these peppers can impress. Happy cooking!](https://goldendishy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/e36cd186-0c48-4bd5-9184-2d07a9c06671-768x768.webp)
