Go Back
Easy Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

Easy Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatballs

Tender beef meatballs are seasoned like classic cheeseburgers and stuffed with small cubes of cheddar cheese. They bake until browned outside and molten in the center, making a simple dinner or slider filling.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatball Mixture
  • 1 pound (450 g) Ground beef, preferably 80-85% lean
  • 1 large Large egg
  • 1/2 cup Plain breadcrumbs or panko
  • 1/4 cup Finely minced yellow onion
  • 1 tablespoon Ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
Cheese Center
  • 4 ounces (115 g) Cheddar cheese, cut into about 20 small cubes
For the Pan
  • As needed Cooking spray or oil
For Serving
  • Optional Ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle slices, shredded lettuce, or diced onion

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil.
  2. Cut the cheddar cheese into approximately 20 small cubes, about 1/2 inch each. Chill or briefly freeze the cubes for 10–15 minutes while preparing the beef mixture.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, minced onion, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix only until the ingredients are combined so the meatballs stay tender.
  4. Divide the beef mixture into approximately 20 portions. Flatten one portion in your palm, place a cheddar cube in the center, bring the meat completely around the cheese, pinch the seam closed, and gently roll it into a ball.
  5. Repeat the stuffing process with the remaining beef portions and cheese cubes. Check each meatball for exposed cheese or open seams, since a complete seal helps keep the cheddar inside during baking.
  6. Arrange the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between them. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until browned and the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  7. Let the meatballs rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. Offer them with ketchup, yellow mustard, and pickles, or place them in slider buns with lettuce and diced onion.

Notes

Use small cheese cubes rather than shredded cheese for a distinct melted center, and seal every meatball completely. Ground chuck or another 80–85% lean beef gives the best traditional burger flavor and moisture. For food safety, cook ground beef to 160°F (71°C) in the center.