These Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Meatballs are tender, juicy, and filled with a delicious melted cheese center. Made with lean ground turkey, herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs, each meatball hides a cube of mozzarella that melts beautifully while baking. When served with warm marinara sauce, the result is a comforting, restaurant-style dinner the whole family will love.
These meatballs are perfect with pasta, inside sandwiches, or served as a party appetizer. They’re simple to prepare and ready in about 35 minutes, making them a great option for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 1 lb | Lean |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup | Plain or Italian style |
| Egg | 1 | |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup | Grated |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons | Keeps meatballs moist |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon | |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | |
| Mozzarella cheese | 4 oz | Cut into small cubes |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For baking |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups | For serving |
| Fresh parsley | 1 tablespoon | Chopped, optional garnish |
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Meatballs
Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and wrap the meat mixture around it, forming a ball.
Step 4: Arrange for Baking
Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush or drizzle with olive oil.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 18–20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden.
Step 6: Heat the Sauce
Warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan and add the baked meatballs.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips for Perfect Turkey Meatballs
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
- Use small mozzarella cubes so the cheese melts evenly.
- If cooking in sauce, simmer meatballs for 5 minutes after baking.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Serving Ideas
- Spaghetti or pasta
- Meatball sub sandwiches
- Garlic bread
- Fresh green salad
Storage
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months.
