Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatballs

These cheeseburger stuffed meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic cheeseburger, making them the perfect appetizer for any gathering. Bursting with flavor and featuring gooey cheese in every bite, these meatballs are sure to impress your guests. They are versatile enough for parties, game days, or family dinners. Plus, with minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip them up in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these meatballs come together quickly.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese creates a deliciously satisfying snack.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer or main dish, paired with your favorite sauces and toppings.
• Kid-Friendly: These meatballs are a fun way to introduce kids to new flavors without overwhelming them.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your kitchen tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife (for cutting cheese)
• Oven mitts

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking Sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking multiple meatballs at once without crowding.
• Parchment Paper: Makes cleanup easier by preventing sticking during baking.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly for consistent flavor throughout.

Ingredients

These cheeseburger stuffed meatballs are an easy and delicious appetizer! Meatballs are stuffed with cheese and topped with our favorite toppings!

For the Meatballs

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• ⅔ cup seasoned bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated onion (see note)
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Hellmann’s ketchup
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 egg

For the Filling

• 6 cheddar cheese sticks (cut into 4 pieces each)

For Toppings

• Dill pickles
• Tomatoes
• Lettuce (for topping)

For Dipping Sauces

• Hellmann’s Spicy Dipping Sauce
• Hellmann’s Burger Sauce

How to Make Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your meatballs will bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine all meatball ingredients except cheese:
1. Add the lean ground beef.
2. Mix in seasoned bread crumbs, grated onion, yellow mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, and egg.
3. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Divide the mixture into 24 even pieces.
1. Take one piece of meat mixture and flatten it in your palm.
2. Place a piece of cheddar cheese in the center.
3. Wrap the meat around the cheese completely to ensure it’s covered.
4. Roll into a ball shape.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Place your formed meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until fully cooked through.

Step 5: Let Them Rest Before Serving

Once baked, allow the meatballs to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Serve your cheeseburger stuffed meatballs warm with sliced dill pickles, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and dipping sauces on the side for added flavor!

How to Serve Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatballs

Serving cheeseburger stuffed meatballs can elevate any gathering. These flavorful bites can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile appetizer that suits different tastes.

Classic Presentation

• Pickle and Tomato Garnish: Top each meatball with a slice of dill pickle and a cherry tomato for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the meatballs on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing option.

Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Dipping Sauce: Offer Hellmann’s Spicy Dipping Sauce alongside for those who enjoy a kick.
• Burger Sauce: Hellmann’s Burger Sauce is a great addition, providing that classic cheeseburger taste.

Party Platter

• Meatball Skewers: Assemble the meatballs on skewers along with veggies for easy serving at parties.
• Cheese Dip: Create a cheese dip using melted cheddar to complement the flavors of the meatballs.

How to Perfect Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatballs

To make your cheeseburger stuffed meatballs truly irresistible, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives in the mixture to enhance flavor and freshness.
• Moisture Control: Ensure not to overmix the ingredients; this keeps the meatballs tender and juicy.
• Cheese Choice: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for varying flavors.
• Resting Time: Let the meatballs rest after baking; this helps them set and makes them easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatballs

Complement your cheeseburger stuffed meatballs with some delicious side dishes. Here are some perfect pairings!

1. French Fries: Crispy golden fries are always a classic choice to enjoy with meatballs.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the meatballs.
3. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty side that pairs well with dipping sauces.
4. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad brings lightness and freshness to your meal.
5. Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings offer a delightful crunch and complement the flavors perfectly.
6. Macaroni Salad: This creamy side dish is comforting and goes well with savory meat dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cheeseburger stuffed meatballs can be simple, but certain mistakes can affect the final result. Avoid these common pitfalls for the best outcome.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor and texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing meatballs to rest after baking helps them set and retain their juices. Don’t skip this step!
• Using low-quality cheese: The cheese is a star ingredient; choose good quality cheese that melts well for a delicious filling. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses as they may not melt properly.
• Overcrowding the baking pan: If you place too many meatballs on one pan, they may steam instead of brown. Space them out to allow heat circulation.
• Not adjusting seasonings: Personalize your meatball mix according to taste. Taste a small portion of the mixture before baking to ensure it’s well-seasoned.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatballs

• Place cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, covering until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are cheeseburger stuffed meatballs?

Cheeseburger stuffed meatballs are savory meatballs filled with gooey cheese that replicate the flavors of a classic cheeseburger. They make for an excellent appetizer or snack!

Can I use ground turkey for cheeseburger stuffed meatballs?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide delicious results while being lower in fat.

How do I customize my cheeseburger stuffed meatballs?

You can add different spices, herbs, or your favorite toppings like diced onions or jalapeños for added flavor. Experiment with different cheeses as well!

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes about 24 meatballs, which should serve around 6-8 people as an appetizer.

Conclusion

These cheeseburger stuffed meatballs are not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them during family dinner, they’re sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize your fillings and toppings for an even more personalized dish!