Ultimate Baked Cheesy Meatballs are the kind of comfort food that never fails to impress. Tender, well-seasoned meatballs baked to perfection and filled with gooey melted cheese deliver a satisfying bite every single time. Whether served as a main dish, party appetizer, or sandwich filling, these meatballs bring bold flavor and rich texture to the table.
Baking the meatballs instead of frying keeps them juicy without excess grease, while allowing the cheese inside to melt slowly and evenly. The result is a golden exterior with a soft, flavorful center that stretches with every bite.
Why These Cheesy Meatballs Are a Must-Try
These meatballs stand out because they combine classic seasoning with a surprise cheesy center. Baking locks in moisture while keeping preparation simple and mess-free. The cheese adds richness without overpowering the meat, making the flavors balanced and crowd-pleasing.
They are also incredibly versatile. Serve them with pasta, tuck them into sandwiches, or enjoy them on their own with dipping sauce. No matter how you serve them, they disappear fast.
Ingredients
- 500 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (60 g)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (100 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 200 g mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Preparing the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense, so stop as soon as everything is evenly distributed.
The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water or milk to loosen it slightly.
Stuffing the Meatballs with Cheese
Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then wrap the meat around the cheese, sealing it completely. Roll gently to form a smooth ball.
Repeat until all the mixture and cheese cubes are used. Sealing the cheese fully inside prevents leaks while baking and ensures a perfect molten center.
Baking the Meatballs
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil. Arrange the meatballs evenly, leaving space between each one for even cooking.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. The cheese inside should be fully melted and stretchy.
Serving Ideas
Serve Ultimate Baked Cheesy Meatballs hot, straight from the oven. They pair beautifully with marinara sauce, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttery pasta. For a casual meal, tuck them into toasted bread for a cheesy meatball sandwich.
They also work perfectly as party food. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks and dipping sauces for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Tips for the Best Results
Cut the cheese into small, even cubes so it melts evenly without bursting out. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the meat. Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
You can customize the flavor by adding chili flakes for heat or switching mozzarella for cheddar or provolone for a different cheese profile.
Why These Meatballs Always Win
Ultimate Baked Cheesy Meatballs combine simplicity with indulgence. They’re easy to prepare, full of flavor, and deliver that irresistible cheese pull everyone loves. Whether for family dinners or special occasions, they never fail to impress.
Once you make them, they quickly become a go-to recipe—proof that classic comfort food, when done right, never goes out of style.