Cheeseburger Meatballs

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the combination of a juicy beef meatball and the classic flavors of a cheeseburger. That’s why I can’t wait to share my take on these delicious Cheeseburger Meatballs. Picture a cozy evening at home, the aroma of savory meatballs wafting through the kitchen as they bake to perfection. You might be craving that comfort food that reminds you of summer barbecues and family gatherings, and these meatballs hit the spot right on the nose. They’re not just for dinner; they’re perfect for game day or any casual occasion where delicious food is in order.

As I prepared my first batch of these Cheeseburger Meatballs, I could hardly contain my excitement. The process is simple, yet each step builds the tantalizing flavors that we all know and love. With cheesy surprises hidden inside and a special sauce to drizzle on top, these meatballs are bound to steal the show at your next meal. Whether you serve them with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles or just dive in straight from the skillet, you’ll find that every bite is bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into what makes these meatballs so special!

Ingredients to Make Cheeseburger Meatballs

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. The foundation is simple: juicy ground beef and a few select seasonings. What takes these meatballs to the next level is the surprise of cheddar cheese hidden inside, ensuring a gooey treat in every bite. Each element serves a purpose, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

• 1 pound lean ground beef: The star ingredient that provides the meatiness and flavor.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Binds the meatball mixture together.
• ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps absorb moisture.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
• 12 cubes of cheddar cheese, about 1-inch in size: The delicious surprise inside the meatballs.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the meatballs.
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated: For topping the meatballs.
• Shredded lettuce, for serving: Adds freshness and crunch.
• Sliced cherry tomatoes, for serving: A refreshing addition.
• Pickled onions, for serving: Provides a tangy contrast.
• Pickles, for serving: Complements the cheeseburger theme.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: Base for the special sauce.
• 1 tablespoon ketchup: Adds sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: A classic cheeseburger condiment.
• 1 tablespoon dill relish: Adds a tangy kick.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For extra flavor in the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds depth and smokiness.
• Pinch salt and pepper: To taste.

Cooking Method for Cheeseburger Meatballs

Making these Cheeseburger Meatballs is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy the delightful flavors quickly. Follow these simple steps to ensure your meatballs are tender and flavorful. The combination of browning and baking gives them the best texture.

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. This is crucial for ensuring an even cooking temperature for your meatballs.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Using your hands, mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough!
3. Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 to 2 inches in size, roughly the size of a golf ball. This ensures an even cooking time and a satisfying bite.
4. Take one cube of cheddar cheese and stick it inside each meatball, forming the beef around it to seal it. This step is key to keeping the cheese flavorful and melted inside.
5. Repeat the process until all the meatballs are formed. It might be a bit messy, but trust me, it will be worth it!
6. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. This will create a beautiful sear on the meatballs.
7. Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer. Brown them on all sides, cooking for about 5 minutes total. Keep an eye out; if there’s a lot of excess grease, feel free to remove it with a spoon. Don’t worry if some cheese spills out—it’s all part of the experience!
8. Once browned, place the skillet in the oven and cook the meatballs for 10 minutes. This allows them to cook through while keeping them juicy.
9. Remove the skillet from the oven and cover the meatballs with the freshly grated cheddar cheese. Return the skillet to the oven for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until the cheese melts beautifully.
10. Serve the meatballs immediately with the lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and your special sauce! To make the sauce, just combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix until combined.

How to Switch It Up

There are many ways to customize these Cheeseburger Meatballs to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas to explore:

• Add Spices: Experiment with different spices in the meat mixture. A dash of cayenne pepper can add some heat.
• Try Different Cheeses: Instead of cheddar cheese, why not try pepper jack or blue cheese for a unique twist?
• Make it Low-Carb: Swap out the breadcrumbs for ground almonds or coconut flour to create a low-carb version.
• Serving Style: Serve the meatballs on skewers for a fun party appetizer. They become easy to grab and devour!
• Stuff with Other Ingredients: Get creative with stuffing! Try adding a slice of jalapeño or a dollop of barbecue sauce inside the meatball for a different flavor profile.
• Vary Your Sauces: The special sauce can be adjusted too. Add in some sriracha for a spicy kick or use ranch dressing for a creamy alternative.

What Goes Well With This Cheeseburger Meatballs

Serving your Cheeseburger Meatballs can be just as fun as making them! Here are some delicious pairings and ideas:

• Fries: Classic fries or sweet potato fries go hand in hand with these meaty delights.
• Salads: A crisp Caesar salad or a refreshing garden salad provides a nice balance.
• Buns: Serve the meatballs in mini buns for a fun slider option at parties!
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a crunchy contrast to the rich meatballs.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or grilled seasonal vegetables make a healthy accompaniment.
• Dips: Offer a selection of dips for guests to enjoy, such as ranch or barbecue sauce.
• Occasions: These meatballs are perfect for game day, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners. They can even be enjoyed during festive occasions!

FAQ

Conclusion

These Cheeseburger Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining the rich flavors of a cheeseburger into tender, cheesy bites. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, they’re sure to satisfy cravings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s simple, delicious, and everyone will love them!

Cheeseburger Meatballs

Craving something hearty and satisfying? These Cheeseburger Meatballs pack all the flavor of your favorite burger into tender, cheesy bites. Perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy dinner at home, they’re sure to be a hit! Try this easy recipe tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 large egg lightly beaten
• ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs you can sub GF crumbs or almond meal here
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 12 cubes cheddar cheese about 1-inch in size
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
• shredded lettuce for serving
• sliced cherry tomatoes for serving
• pickled onions for serving
• pickles for serving
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon dill relish
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• pinch salt and pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
• In a bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix!
• Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 to 2 inches in size.
• Take the cheddar cheese cubes and stick one inside each meatball, forming the beef around it, sealing it so the cheese stays inside.
• Repeat with remaining meatballs.
• Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
• Add the meatballs in a single layer and brown on all sides, cooking for about 5 minutes total.
• Place the skillet in the oven and cook for 10 minutes.
• Remove the skillet and cover the meatballs with the grated cheddar cheese. Return the skillet to the oven for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
• Serve the meatballs immediately with the lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and special sauce!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: Freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to three months. Just thaw and bake when ready!
• Pairing: Serve with a side of fries or a refreshing salad for a complete meal!
• Customizing: Feel free to add your favorite spices or sauces to the meat mixture!
• Cooking Tip: Keep an eye on the meatballs as they cook to avoid overcooking!

Keyword Cheeseburger Meatballs, Comfort Food, easy dinner, Meatball Recipe