These queso-stuffed meatballs are a fun twist on a classic favorite! Juicy meatballs filled with creamy, melty cheese make every bite a tasty surprise.
Who wouldn’t love meatballs that ooze cheesy goodness? I like to serve them with pasta or just on their own for a little snack. They’re always a hit at parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using a beef and pork mix for added flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works too, but adjust seasonings as they are milder.
Queso Fresco: This cheese gives that perfect creamy texture. If you can’t find it, Monterey Jack or even shredded mozzarella is a great substitute!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a nice brightness, but if you’re not a fan, try parsley or omit it altogether. It’ll still be tasty!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are fine, but for a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or ground oats.
How Do You Ensure Meatballs Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking meatballs can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it! First, mix your ingredients gently to avoid tough meatballs. Keep them uniform in size for even cooking. Browning them in a hot skillet adds flavor and keeps them juicy.
- Brown on all sides—this locks in moisture.
- Don’t rush the simmering in sauce; it helps the flavors meld.
- Use a meat thermometer; aim for 160°F (70°C) for beef or pork.
Remember that the cheese inside should be melty and gooey—perfect for that fun surprise!
How to Make Queso-stuffed Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meat Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (or beef and pork mix)
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese, cut into small cubes
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce or enchilada sauce
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, so in under an hour, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to enjoy! Perfect for family meals or impressing friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk in a small bowl until absorbed, which should take about 5 minutes. This will help keep your meatballs moist and tender!
2. Mix the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Use your hands to mix gently until everything is combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form the Meatballs:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in your hand and flatten it out. Place a cube of queso fresco or cheese in the center of the flattened meat, then carefully shape the meat around the cheese and roll it into a tight ball. Repeat this until you’ve used up all the meat mixture.
4. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the meatballs to the skillet and brown them on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet—this allows for even browning!
5. Simmer in Sauce:
After the meatballs have browned nicely, pour the tomato sauce or enchilada sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the meatballs to cook through and lets the cheese melt inside!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once they are cooked through, remove the lid, and let the sauce reduce slightly for about 2-3 more minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro and Parmesan cheese over the top of the meatballs for extra flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Serve these delicious queso-stuffed meatballs hot, with extra sauce spooned over them. They pair wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or even a fresh salad. Enjoy your cheesy, savory treat!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind it might not be as flavorful, so consider adding a little more seasoning to enhance the taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months! Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.
What If I Don’t Have Queso Fresco?
No problem! You can substitute it with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even cheddar cheese. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well for that gooey filling!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking, and follow the chilling instructions for browning and simmering!
