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Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf Meatballs

Featured in The Stars of the Table.

Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf Meatballs combine the best of comfort food into perfect bite-sized portions. These savory meatballs are made with ground beef and finely chopped mushrooms mixed with crackers and seasonings for the perfect texture. Each meatball hides cubes of premium cheddar cheese that melts into a gooey center when baked. Ready in just 40 minutes, they're ideal for a hearty dinner served with mashed potatoes or your favorite sauce. The recipe makes 12 generous meatballs that are packed with protein and flavor, making them perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
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Updated on Sun, 19 Jan 2025 12:48:05 GMT
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Juicy meatloaf meatballs stuffed with gooey cheese for a flavorful and hearty dish. Pin it
Juicy meatloaf meatballs stuffed with gooey cheese for a flavorful and hearty dish. | tasteofcook.com

These tender, juicy meatballs elevate the classic meatloaf experience with an irresistible molten cheese center that oozes with every bite. By incorporating finely chopped mushrooms into the meat mixture, we create incredibly moist meatballs that stay tender while adding extra nutrients and depth of flavor. The combination of seasoned ground beef and sharp cheddar creates a perfect harmony that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I first made these meatballs for a family gathering, and they disappeared within minutes. The look of delight on everyone's faces when they discovered the melted cheese center made all the effort worthwhile. Now they're requested at every family event.

Essential Ingredients Selection

  • Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture
  • Bella Mushrooms: Select firm, fresh mushrooms with no dark spots or slime. They should feel springy when pressed
  • Premium Sharp Cheddar: Aged cheddar provides the best flavor punch. Pre-shredded cheese won't melt as smoothly
  • Fresh Breadcrumbs: Make your own from day-old bread for superior texture and absorption
  • Farm-Fresh Eggs: They bind the mixture perfectly and add richness
  • Seasonings: Fresh garlic, dried herbs, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce create depth of flavor

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cheese Preparation
Cut cheese into 1/2-inch cubes for easy melting. Keep cheese refrigerated until needed to prevent premature melting. Consider freezing cheese cubes for 15 minutes before using to maintain shape during assembly.
Step 2: Perfect Mushroom Integration
Clean mushrooms gently with a damp paper towel. Pulse in food processor until finely chopped but not mushy. Sauté briefly to remove excess moisture and concentrate flavor. Allow to cool completely before mixing with meat.
Step 3: Masterful Meat Mixture
Break up ground beef into small pieces in a large bowl. Add cooled mushrooms, fresh breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Beat egg separately before adding to ensure even distribution. Mix gently with hands until just combined - overmixing leads to tough meatballs.
Step 4: Meatball Assembly
Use an ice cream scoop for uniform portions. Create a deep well in each portion using your thumb. Place cheese cube in center. Carefully fold meat around cheese, sealing completely. Roll between palms to ensure perfect spherical shape.
Step 5: Cooking to Perfection
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange meatballs on parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave space between each for even cooking. Cook until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Savory meatloaf-style meatballs filled with melted cheese, perfect for dinners or appetizers. Pin it
Savory meatloaf-style meatballs filled with melted cheese, perfect for dinners or appetizers. | tasteofcook.com

My family's favorite way to enjoy these meatballs is over creamy mashed potatoes with the natural pan juices spooned over top. The way the cheese slowly oozes out when you cut into them creates an instant sauce that's absolutely divine.

Sauce Pairing Options

Creating the perfect sauce can transform these meatballs into different meals entirely. A classic marinara makes them Italian-inspired, while a brown gravy turns them into comfort food heaven. I particularly enjoy serving them with a creamy mushroom sauce that complements the mushrooms in the meatballs.

Delicious cheese-stuffed meatloaf meatballs with a tender, flavorful center in every bite. Pin it
Delicious cheese-stuffed meatloaf meatballs with a tender, flavorful center in every bite. | tasteofcook.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese for stuffing the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar with mozzarella, pepper jack, or any cheese that melts well. Just make sure to cube it similarly.
→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
You can form the meatballs and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or vegetables. They can be served with marinara sauce, gravy, or enjoyed on their own.
→ Can I use different types of ground meat?
Yes, you can use a mix of ground beef and pork, or substitute with ground turkey. Just keep in mind this may affect cooking time and final texture.
→ What can I use instead of buttery crackers?
You can substitute the crackers with plain breadcrumbs, crushed saltines, or panko breadcrumbs for a similar texture.

Cheesy Meatloaf Meatballs

These tender meatloaf meatballs are stuffed with cheddar cheese and packed with mushrooms and savory seasonings for an irresistible dinner.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (12 meatballs)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Meat and Main Components

01 80/20 ground beef (2 pounds)
02 Bella mushrooms, finely pureed (1 pint)
03 Premium cheddar cheese, cubed (6 ounces)
04 Large egg (1)

→ Seasonings and Binders

05 Buttery crackers, crushed (1 sleeve)
06 Yellow mustard (2 tablespoons)
07 Ketchup (2 tablespoons)
08 Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon)
09 Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
10 Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
11 Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 02

Puree the mushrooms until fine in texture. Crush the crackers into crumbs and set aside. Cut the cheddar cheese into small cubes.

Step 03

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pureed mushrooms, crushed crackers, mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, all seasonings, and the egg. Mix thoroughly with clean hands.

Step 04

Form 12 large meatballs, making a depression in each. Place 1-3 cheese cubes in the center of each depression and carefully cover the cheese completely with the meat mixture.

Step 05

Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes until cooked through. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Notes

  1. These meatballs can be served with mashed potatoes or your favorite sauce.
  2. For best results, ensure cheese is completely enclosed in the meat mixture to prevent leaking during cooking.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Food processor or blender for mushrooms
  • Large mixing bowl

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (cheese)
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains gluten (crackers)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 271
  • Total Fat: 20 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 3 g
  • Protein: 18 g