Cheesy Meatballs – Juicy, Gooey, and Irresistible

Introduction

When it comes to hearty comfort food, Cheesy Meatballs take center stage. These tender, juicy meatballs are packed with melted mozzarella cheese and simmered in a rich, creamy onion sauce that’s pure magic. Whether served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, this dish is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

What makes Cheesy Meatballs so special is the balance between the gooey melted cheese inside and the silky, savory sauce that coats every bite. Just like the crowd-pleasing Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a flavorful meal you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday family gatherings, it’s a true comfort food classic.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Meatballs Recipe

• Extra cheesy goodness: Melted mozzarella in every single bite.

• Comforting creamy sauce: Rich and flavorful onion-based sauce.

• Family favorite: Loved by both kids and adults.

• Versatile dish: Pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread.

• Customizable: Easy to make gluten-free or even vegan with substitutions.

Ingredients

For the Cheesy Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Onion Sauce

• 1 large onion, sliced

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesy Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, mozzarella, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until well incorporated.
Shape into evenly sized Cheesy Meatballs for consistent cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Brown the Cheesy Meatballs on all sides until fully cooked through.
Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add sliced onions.
Cook over medium heat until soft, golden brown, and fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

Sprinkle flour over the onions, stirring continuously to create a roux.
Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce

Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Return the Cheesy Meatballs to the skillet, gently coating them with the sauce.
Simmer for about 5 minutes to let all the flavors meld together.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.
Pair with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• Healthier swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

• Gluten-free version: Replace breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives.

• Vegan-friendly: Use plant-based cheese and milk for a dairy-free twist.

• Add veggies: Bell peppers or mushrooms make a great addition to the sauce.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freeze: Freeze cooked Cheesy Meatballs and sauce separately for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Serving Suggestions

These Cheesy Meatballs shine as a main course but also pair well with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Classic spaghetti or linguine

• Garlic bread and a side salad like the Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad

• A light soup such as Basic Vegetable Soup

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4

Tools Needed

• Large mixing bowl

• Large skillet

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Whisk

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy meat, gooey mozzarella, and a luscious creamy onion sauce. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want to treat your family to something special. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

For more hearty, cheesy recipes, check out Allrecipes or try pairing these meatballs with a side of Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs.

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Cheesy Meatballs in Creamy Onion Sauce

Juicy mozzarella-filled meatballs simmered in a silky, rich onion sauce. Perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Meatballs:
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• For the Sauce:
• 1 large onion sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

• - Large skillet
• - Mixing bowl
• - Whisk
• - Wooden spoon

Method

 

1. Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs.
2. Brown meatballs in a skillet with olive oil, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions in butter until caramelized.
4. Add flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Slowly whisk in milk to create a smooth sauce.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Return meatballs to skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Serve hot with pasta, potatoes, or bread.

Notes

Substitute beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

For gluten-free, use GF breadcrumbs and flour.

Freeze leftovers separately for easy future meals.