Hearty Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Recipe

I love how this easy appetizer combines rich beef with a creamy center for a snack that feels fancy but is actually quite simple.

These Cheese Stuffed Meatballs come together quickly in the air fryer without the mess or grease of deep frying. The seasoned breadcrumb coating adds a wonderful crunch that balances the tender meat and soft cheese perfectly.

What Makes These Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Special

The combination of lean beef and rich brie creates a luxurious flavor profile that takes minutes to prep. You get a restaurant-quality hors d’oeuvre right in your own kitchen with minimal effort.

Cooking these in the air fryer ensures the exterior gets beautifully crisp while keeping the inside juicy and soft. It is a foolproof method that guarantees the right texture every single time you make them.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and works just as well for a holiday spread as it does for a casual game day snack. I appreciate how easily they reheat if you happen to have any leftovers after the party.

If you loved this savory bite, you should definitely try my Roast Beef with Gravy Recipe for a hearty main course. I also recommend making the Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe if you are craving more comforting beef flavors.

Gathering Your Cheese Stuffed Meatballs Ingredients

Here is the shopping list you will need to get started:

• Lean Ground Beef: I prefer using 90% lean beef so the meatballs stay juicy without becoming greasy during cooking.
• Brie Cheese: You will need a wedge cut into small cubes to create the molten center.
• Breadcrumbs: These provide the essential crispy outer layer that contrasts with the soft interior.
• Avocado Oil: A small amount helps bind the mixture and ensures the spices distribute evenly.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the beef.
• Onion Powder: Provides a subtle aromatic flavor without the texture of raw onions.
• Paprika: Gives the coating a nice color and a hint of warmth.
• Dried Thyme: This herb complements the brie cheese beautifully.
• Salt: Enhances all the savory flavors in the meat.
• Black Pepper: Adds a slight kick to balance the richness of the cheese.
• Avocado Oil Spray: Essential for getting that golden-brown finish in the air fryer.
• Cranberry Sauce: Used for dipping to add a tart sweetness that cuts through the rich cheese.

My Method for Perfect Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

Let’s get cooking!

1. Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees F so it is ready to go. Take your ground beef and divide it into 16 equal portions on a clean work surface or cutting board. Flatten each piece of beef into a small disc or square shape with your fingers. Place a single cube of brie cheese directly in the center of each beef portion.
2. Carefully fold the edges of the beef over the cheese to enclose it completely. Roll the meat between the palms of your hands to form a smooth, round ball. It is crucial to seal the meat tightly so that no cheese is visible from the outside. If there are any cracks or gaps, the cheese may leak out during the cooking process.
3. Rub a little avocado oil over the palms of your hands and gently coat the outside of each formed meatball. In a shallow bowl or wide dish, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix these dry ingredients until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the crumbs.
4. Roll each oiled meatball in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until it is fully coated on all sides. Press gently to help the crumbs adhere to the meat surface. Transfer the coated meatballs to the air fryer basket, arranging them in a single layer with a little space between each one. You may need to cook them in two batches depending on the size of your basket.
5. Lightly spray the tops of the meatballs with avocado oil spray to encourage browning. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and the beef is fully cooked through. You can check for doneness with a meat thermometer, which should read 160 degrees F. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving so the cheese settles slightly.

Pro Tips for Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

The most important step is sealing the meat tightly around the cheese cube to prevent leaks during the cooking process. I always roll them firmly between my palms to smooth out any cracks in the beef before coating.

Make sure not to overcrowd the basket when you air fry these Cheese Stuffed Meatballs or they will steam instead of crisping. Cooking in two batches ensures hot air circulates evenly around every single piece.

If you want extra flavor, mix fresh parsley or finely minced onion directly into the ground beef before stuffing. Using a block of brie and cutting it yourself yields better melting results than using pre-cut processed cheese cubes.

Best Ways to Enjoy Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

I love serving these warm with a side of tart cranberry sauce to cut through the richness of the brie and beef. The sweetness of the fruit pairs perfectly with the savory herbs in the breadcrumb coating.

You can also arrange these Cheese Stuffed Meatballs on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking during gatherings. They pair wonderfully with other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms or simple vegetable crudités.

I love seeing what you create in the kitchen, so be sure to follow me on Pinterest for more tasty inspiration.

Cheese Stuffed Meatballs

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• Author: Amelia Bryan
• Total Time: 20 min
• Yield: 8 servings
• Diet: Low Carb

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Description

Crispy air-fried meatballs made with lean beef and stuffed with creamy brie cheese. A quick and savory appetizer ready in under 20 minutes.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 oz brie cheese, cut into 16 small cubes
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Avocado oil cooking spray
• Cranberry sauce for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Divide the ground beef into 16 equal portions and flatten each into a small disc.
2. Place a cube of brie cheese in the center of each beef disc. Fold the meat over the cheese and roll firmly between your palms to seal it completely, ensuring no cheese is exposed.
3. Rub your hands with a small amount of avocado oil and coat each meatball lightly. In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll each meatball in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Spray the meatballs with avocado oil spray. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Allow the meatballs to rest for 2 minutes before serving warm with cranberry sauce.

Notes

Ensure the meat is completely sealed around the cheese to prevent leaking. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.

• Prep Time: 12 min
• Resting Time: 2 min
• Cook Time: 8 min
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 meatballs
• Calories: 155
• Sugar: 0.3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0.4g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 44mg

Keywords: cheese stuffed meatballs, air fryer meatballs, stuffed meatball recipe, appetizer recipe, beef and brie