Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are like a hug in food form. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked meatball, only to discover the gooey, smoky cheese center that surprises you with every bite. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm blanket on a chilly evening, promising a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. For more inspiration, check out this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers recipe.
These meatballs aren’t just food; they’re an experience. I still remember the first time I made them for my friends during game night. As soon as they took that first bite, eyes widened in awe and disbelief at how something so simple could taste so divine. They quickly became my go-to party dish, perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in a cozy night at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are incredibly easy to make and perfect for beginners.
- The rich flavors of smoked cheese blend beautifully with seasoned meat for an unforgettable taste.
- Visually, they look impressive and can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Their versatility allows them to shine as an appetizer or main dish, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients for Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy meatballs that won’t dry out during cooking.
- Smoked Cheese: Choose your favorite smoked cheese, like gouda or cheddar, for that irresistible smoky flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together; use plain or Italian-style for extra flavor.
- Eggs: One or two large eggs will help hold everything together and add moisture.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes recipe.
- Onion Powder: This brings sweetness and aroma; it’s like the secret agent of flavor!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings—don’t skimp on these to elevate your meatballs.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; it’s like confetti for your meatballs!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, eggs, and parsley. Mix until just combined—no one likes over-mixed meat!
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Take a handful of the mixture (about the size of a golf ball), flatten it slightly in your palm, and place a small cube of smoked cheese in the center. Fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
Step 4: Bake Them Up
Place the formed meatballs onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Step 5: Let Them Rest
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let them rest for about five minutes. This helps keep those cheesy centers nice and gooey!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs to plates or a serving platter. Drizzle with marinara sauce if desired; serve hot and watch everyone dive in!
These Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are sure to become a staple at any gathering—whether it’s game night with friends or an intimate family dinner. cheesy potato burritos Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are not just your average meatball.
- These little gems are packed with flavor and ooze cheesy goodness.
- Perfect for appetizers or a hearty meal, they’re sure to impress at any gathering.
- Plus, they’re fun to make!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your meat and spices while preheating your oven. Shape the meatballs around cheese, then sear them in a skillet for added flavor. Finally, bake until perfectly cooked through and melty inside.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the cheese for different types like pepper jack or gouda for a twist. Add herbs like cilantro or parsley to the meat mixture for an extra layer of flavor. You can even spice things up with jalapeños!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover smoked cheese stuffed meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, always use freshly grated cheese; it melts better than pre-shredded versions.
- Ensure your meat mixture isn’t overworked; this keeps the meatballs tender.
- Finally, let them rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.
I remember the first time I made smoked cheese stuffed meatballs for a family gathering. My cousin couldn’t stop raving about them, claiming they were “the best thing since sliced bread.” Who knew meatballs could be such a crowd-pleaser?
FAQs :
What are Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs?
Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are delicious meatballs filled with gooey, flavorful smoked cheese. To make them, ground meat is combined with breadcrumbs and seasonings, then stuffed with a piece of smoked cheese before being cooked. The result is a juicy meatball with a delightful, melty center that adds depth to every bite.
How do I cook Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs?
You can cook Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs in various ways. Baking them in a preheated oven is simple and results in evenly cooked meatballs. Alternatively, you can pan-fry or grill them for added flavor and texture. Regardless of the method, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Can I use different types of cheese for stuffing?
Absolutely! While smoked cheese adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar. Each type will bring its distinct taste and texture to the meatballs. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to maintain that delicious gooey center.
What can I serve with Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs?
Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic dish or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option. chicken Caesar salad wraps You can also enjoy them as appetizers with dipping sauces like barbecue or marinara for extra flavor.
Conclusion for Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs :
In summary, Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are a flavorful and versatile dish that elevates any meal. By using quality ingredients and experimenting with different cheeses, you can create meatballs that suit your taste perfectly. easy meatball casserole recipe Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious recipe at your next gathering!
Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (12 meatballs) 1x
Description
Smoked Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are a delicious combination of juicy ground beef and gooey smoked cheese, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. These meatballs are easy to prepare and ideal as appetizers or main dishes. With their rich flavor and comforting appeal, they promise to impress your guests or family at gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup smoked cheese (gouda or cheddar), cubed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley until just mixed.
- Take a golf ball-sized portion of the mixture, flatten it in your palm, place a cube of smoked cheese in the center, and roll it into a ball.
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them rest for five minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (135g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
