Go Back
Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

This smoked cheese stuffed meatballs recipe is juicy, cheesy, and perfect for game day or a quick weeknight meal your family will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6 Servings

Equipment

  • -A smoker or pellet grill
  • A wire rack or grilling mat

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Instructions
 

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.
  • 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!