Print

Savory Cheddar Stuffed Meatballs

cheddar stuffed meatballs - featured image

These savory cheddar stuffed meatballs are juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for Super Bowl parties, game nights, or any gathering. Bite-sized and easy to make, they’re a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish with a gooey cheddar surprise inside.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup plain or Italian-style bread crumbs (or panko, or gluten-free crumbs)
  • 2 tbsp milk (any kind)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 3 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 16 cubes (about 1/2-inch each)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
  • Chopped chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Cut cheddar cheese into 16 small cubes, about 1/2 inch each. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
  4. If mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash more milk. Mixture should hold together easily.
  5. Divide mixture into 16 equal portions using a cookie scoop or tablespoon. Flatten each portion in your palm.
  6. Place a cheddar cube in the center of each portion. Wrap meat around cheese, sealing edges well. Roll gently into a ball.
  7. Arrange meatballs evenly on prepared baking sheet. Pinch any cracks closed.
  8. Optional: Brown meatballs in a hot skillet with a little oil for 2-3 minutes before baking for extra flavor.
  9. Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until meatballs are browned, cooked through, and cheese is just starting to ooze out. Internal temperature should reach 160°F.
  10. Let meatballs rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Serve with warm marinara sauce and garnish with chives or green onions if desired.

Notes

For best results, don’t overmix the meat mixture and seal cheese cubes tightly to prevent leaks. You can prep meatballs ahead and bake just before serving. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations work well. Browning in a skillet before baking adds extra flavor but is optional.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheddar stuffed meatballs, Super Bowl appetizer, party food, cheesy meatballs, ground beef meatballs, game day snacks, easy meatball recipe