When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark like meatballs. Whether they’re simmering in a rich marinara sauce, served as an appetizer, or simply paired with a hearty side, meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser. But what if we told you that there’s a way to elevate this beloved dish even further? Enter Smoked Stuffed Meatballs, a delicious twist on the classic meatball recipe that will have your taste buds begging for more.
With the smoky flavor imparted from the smoker, paired with the surprise gooeyness of melted mozzarella cheese in the center, Smoked Stuffed Meatballs take the traditional meatball to a whole new level. In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from gathering the ingredients to perfecting the smoking technique, as well as offering suggestions for pairing and additional variations to suit any occasion.
Why Smoked Stuffed Meatballs Are a Game-Changer
You’ve probably had meatballs before, but have you ever tried smoking them? Smoked meatballs are an incredible upgrade because the slow cooking process in the smoker imparts a unique smoky flavor that is impossible to replicate with traditional cooking methods.
Additionally, by stuffing the meatballs with mozzarella cheese, each bite reveals a delicious, melty surprise that adds an extra layer of richness to the dish. Smoked Stuffed Meatballs are perfect for family gatherings, BBQs, or simply a fun weeknight dinner.
Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need and the steps to create these mouthwatering meatballs!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Smoked Stuffed Meatballs
Before you can start smoking those delicious meatballs, you’ll need to gather a few essential ingredients. The combination of ground meats, seasonings, and cheese ensures that these meatballs are packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Meatballs:
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2 pounds ground beef
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1 pound ground pork
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1 cup Italian panko crumbs
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½ cup yellow onion, chopped
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⅓ cup milk
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon salt
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3 large eggs
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2 teaspoons beef seasoning
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1 teaspoon pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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9 sticks mozzarella string cheese
For the BBQ Sauce:
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1 cup BBQ sauce
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Smoked Stuffed Meatballs
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s get started with the preparation process. Follow these easy steps to create perfect Smoked Stuffed Meatballs every time.
Step 1: Mix the Meatball Base
Start by preparing the meatball mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, Italian panko crumbs, chopped onion, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, eggs, beef seasoning, pepper, and garlic powder.
Using your hands or a large spoon, mix all of the ingredients together until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs. The goal is to create a mixture that’s cohesive but still tender and flavorful.
Step 2: Stuff the Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese
Once the meatball base is ready, it’s time to stuff them with cheese. Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick into thirds.
Take a scoop of the meatball mixture and flatten it slightly in the palm of your hand. Place a piece of mozzarella cheese in the center and carefully form the meat around the cheese, sealing it tightly so the cheese doesn’t escape during cooking. Repeat the process until all the meatballs are stuffed.
Step 3: Smoke the Meatballs
Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C). Once the smoker is up to temperature, place the stuffed meatballs on the grill grates. Make sure to space them out evenly to ensure proper airflow and even cooking.
Close the lid of the smoker and let the meatballs smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. During this time, the meatballs will absorb the smoky flavor, and the cheese inside will melt, making them juicy and flavorful.
Step 4: Glaze the Meatballs with BBQ Sauce
In the final 15 minutes of smoking, brush the meatballs with a mixture of BBQ sauce, honey, and brown sugar. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish that perfectly complements the smoky flavor. Simply mix the BBQ sauce, honey, and brown sugar in a small bowl, then brush it generously over each meatball.
Let the BBQ sauce caramelize slightly during the last minutes of smoking to create a sticky, flavorful glaze that will make each bite even more delicious.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Once the meatballs have finished smoking and the glaze has set, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your meatballs are tender and flavorful.
Serve your Smoked Stuffed Meatballs warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. They make a fantastic appetizer, side dish, or main course for your next BBQ or gathering.
Tips for Perfect Smoked Stuffed Meatballs
1. Use a Meat Thermometer
The key to perfectly cooked meatballs is achieving the right internal temperature. Using a meat thermometer ensures that the meatballs are cooked through without drying out. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
2. Customize the Cheese Stuffing
While mozzarella is a classic choice for stuffed meatballs, you can experiment with other types of cheese as well. Try stuffing your meatballs with provolone, cheddar, or a combination of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
3. Maintain Consistent Temperature in the Smoker
Keep the smoker temperature steady throughout the cooking process. Fluctuations in temperature can cause uneven cooking, resulting in meatballs that are either overcooked or undercooked. Check the smoker periodically to ensure it stays at 250°F.
4. Let the Meatballs Rest After Smoking
Allow your meatballs to rest for a few minutes after smoking. This helps retain their juices and makes them easier to serve and enjoy.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you love Smoked Stuffed Meatballs, here are some other delicious recipes you might want to try:
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Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo
A lighter take on the classic meatball, these chicken ricotta meatballs are baked to perfection and served with a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. A great option for a comforting meal! -
BBQ Bacon Chicken Bite Explosion
For those who enjoy smoky flavors, this recipe features bite-sized BBQ bacon-wrapped chicken pieces that are sure to please any crowd. -
Cheesy BBQ Bacon Bomb Bites
These BBQ bacon bomb bites are packed with cheese and smoky flavor, making them the perfect finger food for parties and BBQs.
Nutritional Information for Smoked Stuffed Meatballs
While Smoked Stuffed Meatballs are undeniably delicious, they are also a bit indulgent. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
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Calories per meatball: 300 kcal
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Protein: 20g
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Fat: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 5g
This makes them a satisfying option for a hearty meal, but remember to enjoy them in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Smoked Stuffed Meatballs
1. How long to smoke meatballs?
Smoking meatballs typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours at a temperature of 250°F (120°C). During this time, the meatballs absorb the smoky flavor, and the cheese inside melts, creating a deliciously juicy center. It’s crucial to check the internal temperature of the meatballs using a meat thermometer—when they reach 160°F, they are done and safe to eat.
2. How long should meatballs rest?
After smoking your meatballs, it’s important to let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that the meatballs remain tender and moist when served. It also helps the BBQ glaze to set and prevents any cheese from leaking out.
3. How do you bind meatballs better?
To bind meatballs effectively, you’ll need the right combination of ingredients that hold the meat together. Panko breadcrumbs, egg, and a small amount of milk or cream are ideal for binding the meat. The breadcrumbs provide structure, while the eggs and milk help keep the mixture moist and cohesive. If the mixture feels too wet or loose, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to achieve the right consistency.
4. How do you not overwork meatballs?
When mixing meatballs, the key is to handle the ingredients gently. Overworking the mixture can cause the meatballs to become tough. To avoid this, simply mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Use your hands or a spoon to gently incorporate the ingredients without pressing or squeezing them too much. This will result in tender, juicy meatballs rather than dense, chewy ones.
Final Thoughts on Smoked Stuffed Meatballs
Smoked Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food with a twist. By smoking the meatballs, you introduce a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The gooey mozzarella center is a delightful surprise that pairs perfectly with the smoky meat and sweet BBQ glaze.
Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, looking for a delicious appetizer, or just craving something comforting, Smoked Stuffed Meatballs are sure to become a new favorite. With the right combination of ingredients, smoking techniques, and a bit of patience, you can create a batch of meatballs that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
So, fire up the smoker, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to these mouthwatering Smoked Stuffed Meatballs. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Smoked Stuffed Meatballs Recipe with BBQ Cheese Filling
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 24 meatballs
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Smoked Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate combination of juicy, smoky flavor and gooey mozzarella cheese wrapped inside a perfectly seasoned meatball. Coated in a tangy, sweet BBQ glaze, these meatballs are the perfect addition to your BBQ menu. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or making a family dinner, these smoked meatballs will surely be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
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2 pounds ground beef
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1 pound ground pork
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1 cup Italian panko breadcrumbs
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½ cup yellow onion, chopped
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⅓ cup milk
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon salt
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3 large eggs
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2 teaspoons beef seasoning
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1 teaspoon pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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9 sticks mozzarella string cheese (cut into thirds)
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1 cup BBQ sauce
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
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Mix Meatball Base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, Parmesan, salt, eggs, beef seasoning, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is just combined.
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Stuff with Cheese: Take a scoop of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly. Place a piece of mozzarella in the center and form the meatball around it, sealing it tightly.
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Smoke the Meatballs: Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C). Place the stuffed meatballs on the smoker grates and smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
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Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Mix BBQ sauce, honey, and brown sugar in a bowl. In the last 15 minutes of smoking, brush the sauce over the meatballs for a rich, sweet glaze.
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Serve & Enjoy: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes before serving with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Notes
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For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese and dairy-free milk.
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To make these gluten-free, swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
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You can prep the meatballs the day before smoking and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball (out of 24)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Smoked Stuffed Meatballs, BBQ Meatballs, Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, Smoked Meatballs, BBQ Glazed Meatballs, Cheesy Meatballs, Smoked Recipes, BBQ Recipes, Meatball Recipes