Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (additional for garnish)

Steps to Make Cheddar-Stuffed Meatballs with Ketchup Mustard Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs will bake evenly and come out perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about the size of a golf ball), and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place about a tablespoon of grated cheddar cheese in the center and then carefully fold the meat mixture around the cheese, sealing it inside. Roll the meatball between your hands to form a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing the finished meatballs on a lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the ketchup and mustard. Stir well to create a smooth glaze. You can adjust the proportions to suit your taste, adding more ketchup for sweetness or more mustard for tanginess.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs

Place the meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The meatballs should be golden brown on the outside.

Step 6: Glaze the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and brush them generously with the ketchup-mustard glaze. You can also spoon some of the glaze over the top of the meatballs for a more even coating. Return the meatballs to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the glaze to set.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the meatballs from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the meatballs for a burst of color and freshness. Serve them hot, with extra ketchup and mustard on the side if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 370 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 6g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey or chicken may have a slightly drier texture, so be sure to not overbake them. You might also want to add a bit more moisture (such as extra milk or a tablespoon of olive oil) to keep them tender.

Q2: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to make them further ahead, you can freeze the raw meatballs on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Q3: Can I make these meatballs without cheese?
While the cheddar cheese adds a delicious melty surprise in the center, you can make these meatballs without it if you prefer. Simply omit the cheese and adjust the seasoning as needed. They will still be flavorful, though they will lack the gooey center.

Q4: Can I make a different glaze?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of the ketchup and mustard glaze, you can create your own with ingredients like BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, or even a balsamic glaze. Just experiment with different flavor combinations to suit your preferences.

Tips for Making Perfect Cheddar-Stuffed Meatballs

1. Don’t Overmix the Meat: Overmixing the meatball mixture can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until everything is incorporated, and then stop.
2. Use Cold Cheese: When stuffing the meatballs, it helps to use cheese that’s cold. This will prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during baking and leaking out of the meatball.
3. Roll the Meatballs Evenly: Try to roll the meatballs into even-sized balls to ensure they cook uniformly. A cookie scoop or tablespoon can help make them the same size.
4. Adjust the Glaze: Depending on your preferences, feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the glaze. Adding a little honey or brown sugar can boost the sweetness, while more mustard can add a nice zing.
5. Serve with Dipping Sauces: These meatballs are delicious on their own, but they can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. Try serving them with ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or even a creamy garlic dipping sauce.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, first let the cooked meatballs cool to room temperature. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, depending on the quantity.

Conclusion

These Cheddar-Stuffed Meatballs with Ketchup Mustard Glaze are a deliciously cheesy, savory treat that will delight anyone who takes a bite. The combination of tender beef, melty cheddar cheese, and a tangy glaze makes for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for dinner, a party appetizer, or a weekend meal. The best part is how easy they are to make and customize, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses, glazes, and seasonings to make them your own. With a crispy exterior and cheesy center, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite in no time!