Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Meatballs

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Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Meatballs are a delicious and healthier twist on traditional meatballs, featuring lean turkey meat and gooey mozzarella cheese stuffed inside each one. The turkey meatballs are seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices like garlic, oregano, and basil, then baked or pan-fried to golden perfection. When you bite into them, the melted mozzarella oozes out, creating a savory, cheesy surprise inside. These meatballs can be served with marinara sauce, over pasta, or even in a sub roll for a hearty sandwich.

I first made Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Meatballs when I wanted a lighter alternative to beef meatballs but still wanted that comforting, cheesy experience. The mozzarella adds a creamy richness that pairs wonderfully with the lean turkey, and the seasonings make the meatballs flavorful without being heavy. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can serve them as an appetizer, in a pasta dish, or as part of a fun meal for the family. Whether with spaghetti, on a salad, or tucked into a sub, these meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Meal prep
  • Game day snacks
  • Casual gatherings
  • Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Meatballs will be a hit in your kitchen:

  • Cheese-Lover’s Dream: The melted mozzarella core adds an irresistible creamy texture.
  • Healthy Protein Option: Lean ground turkey keeps these meatballs light yet satisfying.
  • Packed with Flavor: Seasoned with garlic, onion, parsley, and Italian herbs for a robust taste.
  • Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
  • Kid-Friendly: Fun to eat and perfect for little hands.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, including prep time.
  • Versatile Dish: Serve with pasta, salad, or on their own with marinara sauce.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for busy weeknights.
  • Low-Carb Option: Suitable for keto diets when paired with zucchini noodles or a green salad.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb option)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Turkey: Lean and packed with protein, providing a healthy base.
  • Mozzarella: Melts beautifully for a creamy center.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth of flavor.
  • Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs and give them structure.
  • Marinara Sauce: Complements the savory meatballs with a tangy, rich finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but not overworked.
  3. Form Meatballs: Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a mozzarella cube in the center and wrap the meat mixture around it, forming a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture and mozzarella.
  4. Bake: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. Heat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add marinara sauce and bring to a gentle simmer.
  2. Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Transfer the baked meatballs to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm. Pair with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Meatballs:

  • Classic Spaghetti: Serve over spaghetti with extra marinara sauce.
  • Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
  • On a Sub Roll: Make a meatball sub with melted provolone cheese.
  • Appetizer Style: Serve with toothpicks for an easy party snack.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair with buttery, crispy garlic bread.
  • Over Rice: Serve with white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: A comforting and filling combination.
  • On a Salad: Top a Caesar or mixed green salad for a protein boost.
  • In a Wrap: Roll into a tortilla with fresh veggies for a quick lunch.
  • As a Pizza Topping: Slice and use as a topping for homemade pizza.

Additional Tips

  • Keep Mozzarella Chilled: Cold mozzarella is easier to work with and helps maintain its shape while forming the meatballs.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture can make them dense and tough.
  • Use a Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized meatballs, use a small cookie scoop to portion the mixture.
  • Line Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • Test for Doneness: Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee they are fully cooked.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Meatballs: Add extra red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick.
  • Cheese Swap: Use cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack instead of mozzarella.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
  • Turkey and Beef Combo: Mix ground turkey with ground beef for a richer flavor.
  • Herbaceous Boost: Add fresh oregano or thyme to the meat mixture.
  • Creamy Sauce: Swap marinara for a creamy Alfredo sauce for a decadent twist.
  • Mini Meatballs: Make bite-sized meatballs for appetizers or kids’ meals.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative and vegan mozzarella.
  • Stuffed with Pesto: Add a dollop of pesto inside each meatball along with the cheese.
  • Air Fryer Method: Cook the meatballs in an air fryer for a crispier exterior.

Special Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl: For combining meatball ingredients.
  • Baking Sheet: For baking the meatballs evenly.
  • Skillet: To simmer the sauce and finish the meatballs.
  • Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized meatballs.
  • Meat Thermometer: To check for doneness.
  • Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking during baking.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
    Yes, ground chicken works just as well as a substitute for turkey.
  2. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate the uncooked meatballs for up to 24 hours.
  3. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  4. Can I cook these meatballs in a skillet instead of baking?
    Yes, you can pan-fry them in a little olive oil until cooked through.
  5. What’s the best way to reheat meatballs?
    Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in a microwave-safe dish with sauce.
  6. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
    Yes, use three times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried equivalent.
  7. What’s the ideal size for the meatballs?
    About 1.5 inches in diameter is a good size for even cooking.
  8. How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
    Ensure you’re using enough breadcrumbs and egg to bind the mixture.
  9. Can I skip the mozzarella filling?
    Yes, the meatballs are delicious on their own, even without the cheese.
  10. What other sauces work well with these meatballs?
    Try Alfredo, barbecue, or a creamy mushroom sauce for variety.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Meatballs are a fun and delicious twist on classic meatballs, offering a savory surprise inside. The turkey meatballs are packed with lean protein, perfectly seasoned, and then stuffed with a gooey, melted mozzarella center that adds a rich, creamy texture. Whether served with marinara sauce over spaghetti, as a party appetizer, or paired with your favorite side dishes, these meatballs are sure to become a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. You can add a bit of garlic or fresh herbs like basil and oregano for extra flavor, or even top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking for an extra cheesy kick. The combination of tender turkey and gooey mozzarella makes these meatballs a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional beef meatballs.

I can’t wait to see how your Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Meatballs turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your tasty creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made these meatballs your own!