Cheese stuffed meatballs on the Blackstone griddle bring a delightful twist to the classic Italian favorite. These meatballs are packed with juicy beef and gooey cheese, promising a burst of flavor in every bite. You can easily prepare these delicious meatballs for your family by following a simple recipe and cooking them on your Blackstone griddle.
To start, gather your ingredients: quality ground beef, your choice of cheese (like Oaxaca or mozzarella), fresh parsley, garlic, and breadcrumbs. While the beef provides a hearty base, the cheese melts into a rich, creamy center. Season with Italian seasonings to elevate the flavor profile, making each meatball a savory sensation.
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to a medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Form the mixture into meatballs, making sure to place a piece of cheese in the center of each. Place them on the griddle and cook until they’re browned and crispy on the outside and the cheese is melted on the inside. Serve these meatballs with your favorite pasta or as a scrumptious appetizer at your next gathering.
Preparing the Ingredients
To get started with making cheese-stuffed meatballs on the Blackstone griddle, you’ll need to focus on choosing quality meats and cheeses, gathering the right herbs and seasonings, and properly mixing the meatball mixture. These elements help ensure your meatballs are flavorful, juicy, and hold together well on the griddle.
Selecting Quality Meats and Cheese
Choose ground beef and Italian sausage for your base. Opt for a mix of 80% lean ground beef to keep your meatballs juicy without being overly fatty. Italian sausage adds a spiced flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
For the cheese, use mozzarella for stuffing. It melts beautifully and creates a gooey center. For additional flavor, mix in some grated parmesan cheese with your ground meat. Using fresh mozzarella and premium grated parmesan can enhance the taste and texture significantly.
Herbs and Seasonings
Herbs and seasonings are essential for aromatic and tasty meatballs. Use minced garlic, salt, and pepper as your basic seasonings. Freshly minced garlic offers a more robust flavor compared to garlic powder.
For herbs, include chopped parsley and a bit of Italian seasoning. Fresh parsley adds a bright note while Italian seasoning provides a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme. These herbs complement the meats and cheese without overpowering them.
Creating the Meatball Mixture
Start by placing your ground beef, Italian sausage, and grated parmesan cheese into a large mixing bowl. Crack one egg into the bowl, which acts as a binder. Next, add breadcrumbs to provide texture and help absorb moisture.
Pour in a splash of milk to keep the meatballs tender. Finally, add in your prepared garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, and Italian seasoning. Using clean hands or a spatula, mix the ingredients until they’re just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as it can make the meatballs tough.
Once mixed, take a small amount of the mixture, press a cube of mozzarella into the center, and form a meatball around it. Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent leaks during cooking. Refrigerate the meatballs for at least an hour before cooking to help them firm up.
Following these steps will prepare you to cook delicious cheese-stuffed meatballs on your Blackstone griddle.
Cooking and Serving
Cheese Stuffed Meatballs on the Blackstone Griddle are a tasty main course that pairs perfectly with spaghetti and marinara sauce. To get the best results, follow these steps for preheating and cooking, serving suggestions, and tips for storage and reheating.
Preheating and Cooking on the Griddle
First, preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of olive oil on the griddle surface to avoid sticking.
Next, place the meatballs onto the griddle, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. Let the meatballs cook until they are browned all over and the cheese inside is melted. Use tongs to turn the meatballs regularly so they get crispy on all sides.
The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are cooked through. You might cook them for about 10-15 minutes, depending on their size.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When serving your cheese stuffed meatballs, classic pairings like spaghetti and marinara sauce are always a hit. The warm flavors and textures complement the meatballs perfectly.
For a hearty meal, you can also serve them with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
If you’re looking for something different, pair the meatballs with some fluffy rice and roasted vegetables. You can even slide them into a hoagie roll topped with extra marinara and mozzarella cheese for a delicious meatball sub.
Storage and Reheating Tips
For any leftovers, let the meatballs cool before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay good for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs. Lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat, you can use a microwave, oven, or even the griddle again. If using a microwave, cover the meatballs with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes. In the oven, heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Ensure the meatballs are heated thoroughly before serving again to enjoy their full flavors.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
