There’s something so comforting about biting into a tender, juicy meatball and finding a warm, gooey cheese surprise tucked inside.

Smoked cheese stuffed meatballs are the ultimate comfort food with a smoky twist, perfect for game days, casual gatherings,appetizersor even a quick weeknight dinner.

I’ve made these for everything from family parties to Sunday football, and they’re always a hit. The smoky flavor mingling with the melted cheese is pure perfection.

Plus, they’re super versatile,you can serve them as appetizer, part of a main dish, or even use leftovers for a quick bite later.

Let’s get started!

What’s Inside This Recipe?

Ingredients for Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

To make these smoky, cheesy meatballs, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what I used to make them absolutely appetizer irresistible:

1 pound ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup smoked cheese, cut into small cubes
2 cups marinara sauce
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

You’ll also need:

A smoker or pellet grill
A wire rack or grilling mat

Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s roll up our sleeves and make some amazing meatballs!

How to Make Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

Making smoked cheese stuffed meatballs might sound fancy, but I promise it’s simple and so worth it. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have perfect appetizer, smoky meatballs in no time.

Step 1: Mix the meatball base

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as that can make the meatballs dense.

Step 2: Stuff the meatballs with cheese

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of smoked cheese in the center, then fold the meat around it to completely enclose the cheese.

Roll gently between your hands to form a smooth ball. Repeat until all the meat mixture is used.

Step 3: Prepare for baking

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the stuffed meatballs on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake the meatballs

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Step 5: Warm the marinara sauce

While the meatballs are baking, pour your favorite marinara sauce into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Step 6: Serve and garnish

Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the warm marinara sauce or spoon the sauce over them when serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, colorful finish. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Recipe Variations and Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this appetizer Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs is how easy it is to customize! Here are a few of my favorite variations:

Vegetarian option: Swap the ground meat for a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use a smoke-flavored cheese or vegan cheese to keep that smoky twist.
Keto-friendly: Skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed baked chickpeas instead. It keeps the meatballs low-carb while adding a nice crunch.
Crushed Baked Chickpeas: You can make crunchy crushed baked chickpeas at home, they’re a healthy, protein-packed snack or a perfect topping for salads and bowls. Easy, satisfying, and totally addictive!
Different cheeses: Try stuffing the meatballs with other types of cheese, like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Make-ahead: Form the meatballs and stuff them with cheese, then freeze them raw. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw and smoke as directed.

Leftovers are fantastic, too! You can slice the meatballs and add them to a sandwich or toss them with pasta for a smoky, cheesy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the meat completely around the cheese before rolling the meatballs. You can also chill the stuffed meatballs for 15 minutes before smoking,they’ll hold their shape better that way.

Can I bake these instead of smoking them?

Yes, you can! Bake the meatballs at 375°F on a lined baking sheet for about 25–30 minutes, or until cooked through. You won’t get the smoky flavor, but they’ll still be delicious.

What’s the best wood for smoking meatballs?

I love using hickory or applewood because they’re mild and pair beautifully with beef. Mesquite is great for a bolder, heartier smoke flavor.

Can I freeze leftover smoked meatballs?

Absolutely! Place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or on the smoker to maintain their great flavor.

What can I serve with smoked cheese stuffed meatballs?

These meatballs are super versatile! Serve them over spaghetti, with mashed potatoes, or on their own as appetizers. They’re also amazing with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad.

Let’s Wrap It Up!

I hope you’re as excited as I am to make these smoked cheese stuffed meatballs. They’re smoky, cheesy, juicy, and downright addictive,perfect for game day, a party, or just a cozy dinner at home.

Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out! Leave a comment below or tag me on Pinterest or Instagram,I’d love to see your creations.

Looking for more delicious Appetizers recipes? Try my Homemade Pizza Rolls Recipe or these Spicy Salmon Bites.

Happy cooking!