Description

These Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs are a savory, delicious twist on classic meatballs featuring a molten core of sharp cheddar cheese. Juicy ground beef seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper is formed around cheesy cubes, baked until perfectly cooked, and served hot. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these meatballs combine bold flavors and gooey cheese for an irresistible bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Mixture

1 pound lean ground beef (85/15)
1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika

Filling

2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cubed into 8 cubes

Other

Olive oil spray

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with high-heat-resistant parchment paper or lightly grease a rimmed baking dish like a Pyrex or ceramic pan to prevent sticking.
Prepare Meat and Cheese: Divide the ground beef into eight equal portions. Flatten each portion into a thin circle on a clean surface. Place one cube of sharp cheddar cheese in the center of each flattened meat circle.
Form Meatballs: Carefully fold and shape the meat around the cheese cubes to enclose them completely, forming tight meatballs. Ensure the cheese is sealed inside to prevent leakage during baking.
Season Meatballs: In a shallow bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Roll each meatball in this spice mixture to coat evenly on all sides.
Bake: Arrange the seasoned meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to help brown the surface. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest and Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and makes them easier to handle before serving hot.

Notes

Use sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, tangy flavor and good melting quality.
Make sure to seal the meat well around the cheese to avoid cheese oozing out during baking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.
Olive oil spray helps create a nicely browned exterior without added grease.
Feel free to customize seasoning to your taste with herbs like parsley or spices like cumin.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American