Smoked Stuffed Meatballs

Smoked Stuffed Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food with a smoky twist—juicy meatballs packed with a cheesy surprise inside, slow-cooked on the smoker to perfection. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, main course, or on a sub roll, these meatballs are loaded with flavor and make every bite an experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoky, rich flavor from slow smoking
• Melted cheese stuffed inside for a gooey center
• Versatile—serve as snacks, with pasta, or in sandwiches
• Great for BBQs, game day, or meal prep
• Simple ingredients with big flavor payoff
• Juicy on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside
• Customizable fillings and seasonings
• Great way to impress guests with minimal effort
• Holds up well for reheating and leftovers
• Works with any type of ground meat

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• Egg
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic, minced
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Mozzarella cubes (for stuffing)
• BBQ sauce or marinara (optional for glazing)

directions

1. Preheat your smoker to 250°F. Use hickory, oak, or your favorite wood for added flavor.
2. In a large bowl, mix ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
3. Take a small portion of the meat mixture, flatten it in your palm, and place a mozzarella cube in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll into a firm ball. Repeat until all meatballs are formed.
4. Place the stuffed meatballs on a wire rack or directly on the smoker grate.
5. Smoke at 250°F for about 1.5–2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. In the last 15 minutes of smoking, brush meatballs with BBQ sauce or warm marinara for added flavor (optional).
7. Remove from smoker, rest for 5 minutes, then serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5–2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
• Stuff with cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for different flavor profiles
• Wrap meatballs in bacon before smoking for extra decadence
• Mix chopped jalapeños into the meat for a spicy kick
• Serve with garlic bread or over spaghetti for a hearty meal

storage/reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven or air fryer until heated through (about 10–15 minutes). You can also microwave them in 30-second intervals, but the texture is best preserved with oven or skillet reheating. These meatballs also freeze well—just cool completely, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What type of wood is best for smoking meatballs?

Hickory, oak, or a mix of applewood and cherrywood add great flavor without overpowering the meat.

Can I use frozen mozzarella for the stuffing?

Yes, frozen cheese holds its shape better while stuffing and melts perfectly during cooking.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Use the right ratio of breadcrumbs and egg for binding, and make sure not to overmix the meat.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, or freeze them uncooked.

Do I need a smoker to make these?

No smoker? Use a grill with indirect heat and wood chips for a similar effect, or bake them in the oven.

What internal temperature should the meatballs reach?

Cook to an internal temp of 160°F for beef/pork or 165°F for poultry blends.

What’s the best cheese for stuffing meatballs?

Mozzarella is classic, but you can also use cheddar, provolone, gouda, or even blue cheese for something bold.

Can I glaze with BBQ sauce and marinara?

Yes! BBQ gives a smoky-sweet kick, while marinara leans more Italian—both are delicious.

Can I cook these in a pellet smoker?

Yes, pellet smokers work great and allow for steady, even cooking with great smoke flavor.

How do I serve smoked stuffed meatballs?

As a party appetizer, with pasta, over mashed potatoes, or stuffed into a toasted sub roll with sauce and cheese.

Conclusion

Smoked Stuffed Meatballs are the perfect blend of smoky, cheesy, and meaty goodness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, prepping for game day, or just craving something hearty, these meatballs deliver on flavor and fun. Easy to prep and always a hit, they’re a must-try for any smoker enthusiast.

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