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🍴 Stuffed Meatballs with Vegetables and Cheese – Juicy, Flavorful & Packed with Goodness!
### For the Stuffing:
* ½ cup shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite melting cheese
* Optional: small cubes of cooked vegetables (like bell pepper or mushroom)
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## 🧑🍳 Instructions
### 1. **Prep the Veggies**
Grate the zucchini and carrot and finely chop the onion. If your zucchini is very watery, gently squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean towel.
### 2. **Make the Meat Mixture**
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated vegetables, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Mix until everything is well incorporated but don’t overmix — that can make meatballs tough.
### 3. **Shape and Stuff**
Take a spoonful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Add a small piece of cheese (and optional veggie cube) in the center, then fold the meat around it and shape into a ball.
Repeat until all meatballs are formed.
### 4. **Cook the Meatballs**
**Option 1: Oven-Baked**
* Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet.
* Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
**Option 2: Pan-Fried**
* Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
* Cook meatballs in batches, turning to brown all sides, about 8–10 minutes.
### 5. **Serve and Enjoy!**
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs. These go wonderfully with marinara sauce, creamy mashed potatoes, or even tucked into a sandwich bun.
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## 🍽 Serving Suggestions
* **Classic:** Over spaghetti with tomato sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
* **Low-carb:** Serve with zucchini noodles or steamed veggies.
* **Kid-friendly:** Mini meatballs with melted cheese make perfect lunchbox bites!
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## ❄️ Make Ahead & Storage
* **Refrigerate:** Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
* **Freeze:** Freeze raw or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
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## Final Bite
These **stuffed meatballs with vegetables and cheese** are more than just delicious — they’re smart cooking. You’re getting a protein-packed main dish with hidden veggies and melty cheese in every bite. They’re a hit with kids and adults alike and make meal planning a whole lot easier.
Ready to turn dinner into something special tonight? These stuffed meatballs are calling your name.
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Would you like a printable recipe card, step-by-step image guide, or tips on making this dairy-free or keto-friendly?
