These stuffed meatballs are an indulgent and hearty dish, combining the rich flavors of minced chicken, beef, and pork with fresh vegetables, spices, and gooey cheese. The meatballs are seasoned with paprika, cumin, curry, and Italian herbs, creating a savory, aromatic filling. They’re stuffed with melted cheese and served with a side of roasted vegetables and fresh herbs. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special occasion meal!
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400 g minced chicken
- 400 g ground beef
- 400 g minced pork
- 2 eggs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Butter, for greasing and cooking
- 1/3 cabbage, shredded
- 1 carrot, grated
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 leek, chopped
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 30 ml lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 150 ml warm milk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 100-150 g cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
Directions
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced chicken, beef, and pork.
- Add the eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, curry, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Stuff the Meatballs:
- Shape the meat mixture into small balls, making a small indentation in the center of each.
- Stuff the indentation with a small piece of cheese and seal the meatball around the cheese.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped cabbage, grated carrot, and leek for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the fresh dill and cilantro, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat vegetable oil in a separate pan.
- Fry the stuffed meatballs until golden brown on all sides, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Roasted Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the chopped potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika.
- Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the lemon juice, garlic, and a splash of warm milk. Stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Serve the stuffed meatballs with a side of roasted potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and a drizzle of the lemon sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil, tomato, cucumber, and more cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of rice or couscous for a fuller meal.
- Pair with a fresh, tangy green salad to balance the richness of the meatballs.
- Top with extra grated cheese and bake the meatballs for a melted, cheesy topping.
- For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli.
- A dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side adds a creamy contrast.
Cooking Tips
- If you prefer a lighter option, you can bake the meatballs instead of frying them.
- Use leaner meats such as turkey or chicken breast if you’re looking to reduce fat content.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste—add more curry powder or paprika for extra heat.
If you don’t have all the herbs listed, fresh parsley or thyme can be great substitutes.
- Pre-cook the vegetables for the stuffing to ensure they don’t release too much water while cooking.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein from the combination of chicken, beef, and pork.
- Rich in vitamins and fiber from the vegetables like cabbage, carrot, and leek.
- The cheese provides calcium and healthy fats for energy.
- Contains healthy fats from olive oil and butter, which can help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Yes (Ensure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour if necessary).
- Dairy-Free: Can be made dairy-free by substituting cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables instead of potatoes.
- Keto-Friendly: Yes, when served without potatoes and using low-carb cheese options.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs and vegetables for up to 2 months.
- Reheat the meatballs in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of extra milk or water to keep them moist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines rich, flavorful meatballs with creamy cheese and savory roasted vegetables. The spices bring warmth and depth, while the stuffed cheese adds a delightful surprise in every bite. It’s a one-pan meal that’s satisfying, comforting, and easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
These stuffed meatballs are a great way to mix up your usual dinner routine. Packed with flavor and a cheesy surprise in the middle, they’re both delicious and filling. With a variety of veggies and rich seasonings, it’s an all-in-one meal that’s easy to make. Whether you serve them with potatoes, rice, or a side salad, they’re sure to be a hit at your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground turkey instead of minced pork or beef?
- Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for any of the meats in this recipe.
- Can I make this dish in advance?
- Yes, you can prep and assemble the meatballs the day before and bake them when ready.
- Can I freeze the stuffed meatballs?
- Yes, freeze them after cooking, and reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat.
- How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter or oil for the sauce.
- Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?
- Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would work well in the stuffing.
- How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out of the meatballs?
- Ensure the meat mixture is tightly sealed around the cheese, and fry or bake them at moderate temperatures.
- Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
- Yes, bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- What side dishes go well with stuffed meatballs?
- Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad are great sides.
- Can I use other herbs instead of cilantro and dill?
- Parsley, thyme, or oregano are great alternatives.
- Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
- Yes, serve without potatoes or rice and use low-carb cheese for a keto-friendly version.