Dinner

Burrata-Stuffed Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Recipe

ByLana Polati March 6, 2026March 6, 2026

Introduction

These burrata-stuffed meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, combining juicy, flavorful meat with creamy, melted cheese inside. Perfect for serving with marinara sauce, they make an impressive appetizer or main dish that’s sure to please family and friends.

The image shows a white plate filled with eight browned meatballs sitting in a rich red tomato sauce. Each meatball is topped with small green basil pieces and sprinkled with grated white cheese. One meatball in the front is split open, revealing a gooey, melted white cheese inside that stretches slightly. The tomato sauce glistens around the meatballs, with a bit of oil reflecting light. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and the colors focus on warm reds, browns, fresh greens, and creamy whites. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
8 ounces burrata cheese (cut into small pieces)
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined without overworking the meat.
Step 2: Portion about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a small piece of burrata cheese in the center and carefully fold the meat around the cheese, shaping it into a ball. Repeat until all mixture is used.
Step 3: Arrange the stuffed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
Step 4: While the meatballs bake, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through.
Step 5: Serve the meatballs on a plate with marinara sauce drizzled over them. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy them alone, with pasta, or in a sub sandwich!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
Try using a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer texture.
If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella balls work as a tasty substitute.
Use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher, more vibrant taste.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or warm them in marinara sauce on the stovetop to keep them moist and flavorful.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate filled with eight browned meatballs sitting in a rich, red tomato sauce. One meatball in the front is cut open, revealing melted white cheese oozing out. The meatballs are topped with small chopped green herbs and sprinkled with grated cheese. The tomato sauce around them looks thick with a slightly shiny texture. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze the burrata-stuffed meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked assembled meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to fully encase the burrata with meat, sealing any gaps. Flattening the meat slightly before adding the cheese helps create a more secure enclosure. Handle the meatballs gently to avoid tears.