Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatball Pasta

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal, look no further than Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatball Pasta. This dish brings together juicy, flavorful meatballs with gooey mozzarella centers, all nestled in a bed of perfectly cooked pasta and rich marinara sauce. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or whenever you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of herbs, cheese, and tender meat makes every bite a delight. Ready to dive into this crowd-pleaser? Let’s get started!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Melty Mozzarella Surprise: Each meatball hides a gooey, cheesy center that oozes out when you take a bite.
• Rich Flavors: Italian herbs, garlic, and Parmesan elevate the beef meatballs for a restaurant-quality taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this pasta dish, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal fuss with maximum flavor—everything comes together in one skillet and pot.
• Customizable: Use your favorite pasta, swap in fresh herbs, or add a spicy kick if you like.

What to Buy

• 1 pound ground beef (choose lean for less grease or regular for juicier meatballs)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned work well)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (fresh mozzarella or low-moisture mozzarella)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade)
• 12 ounces pasta of choice (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti all work well)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (adds a pop of color and fresh aroma)

Gear Checklist

• Large mixing bowl – to combine meatball ingredients
• Baking sheet or skillet – for cooking the meatballs
• Large pot – to cook the pasta
• Slotted spoon – to transfer meatballs
• Knife and cutting board – to cube the mozzarella
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring sauce and pasta
• Colander – to drain pasta

Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatball Pasta — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything gently until just combined; overmixing can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Stuff the Meatballs

Take a small handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around the cheese, rolling it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese cubes, making about 16-18 meatballs.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, turning gently to avoid breaking. Cook until they’re nearly cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Simmer in Marinara

Once browned, pour 2 cups of marinara sauce over the meatballs in the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt inside and the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the meatballs simmer, cook 12 ounces of your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the meatballs and sauce, coating everything evenly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, vibrant finish.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• If ground beef prices are high, substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Use store-brand marinara sauce or homemade sauce from canned tomatoes to save money.
• Swap fresh mozzarella cubes with shredded mozzarella if you prefer.
• Breadcrumbs can be made at home by toasting and pulsing stale bread in a food processor.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture — this can make your meatballs dense and tough.
• Avoid skipping the resting time after browning the meatballs; simmering in sauce is crucial for juicy, tender meatballs.
• Don’t add too much salt early on; Parmesan and marinara sauce already contribute saltiness.
• Avoid cutting corners by using pre-cooked meatballs — the fresh homemade ones really make the difference.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatball Pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The cheese may firm up after refrigeration but will melt again when warmed.

You can also prepare the meatballs ahead of time, freeze them uncooked, and bake or simmer in sauce when ready. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

Questions People Ask

Can I use a different type of cheese for stuffing the meatballs?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for the gooey center, you can use provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a little spice. Just make sure it melts well.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and choose gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free without compromising flavor.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart when stuffing them?

Make sure the meat mixture is sticky enough by not overmixing and handling gently. Also, ensure the mozzarella cubes are fully encased in meat and the meatballs are rolled tightly before cooking.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can shape and stuff the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook them straight from frozen by adding a few extra minutes when browning and simmering.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Baked Ziti With Italian Sausage And Cheese — another cheesy pasta bake perfect for busy evenings.
• Baked Spaghetti Casserole Supreme — a hearty and flavorful casserole that’s easy to prepare.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatball Pasta hot, with extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top and a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. The fresh basil garnish adds a lovely aroma and a burst of color that makes the dish feel special. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a weekend family dinner, this pasta will quickly become a favorite. The combination of tender meatballs with melty cheese and rich tomato sauce is pure comfort food at its best.

Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of this delicious Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatball Pasta!

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