Stuffed Meatballs with Guinness Gravy

Juicy meatballs bursting with melted mozzarella cheese nestled inside a rich, velvety Guinness gravy create a dish that is both hearty and comforting. This recipe brings together succulent beef and pork, perfectly balanced spices, and a luscious sauce that simmers slowly to develop deep flavors. A true delight for a cozy night in when you crave something warm and satisfying.

I first made these meatballs for a family gathering, and their oozy cheese filling quickly became the highlight of our meal. The Guinness gravy adds a unique depth that I haven&t found in any other comfort food.

Ingredients You Need

• Ground beef and ground pork: combine to create moist and flavorful meatballs& choose fresh cuts with good marbling for best results
• Breadcrumbs: bind the mixture and keep meatballs tender& use fresh or store-bought depending on your preference
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds a savory umami boost that complements the mozzarella
• Mozzarella cheese cubes: provide a luscious, creamy surprise inside each meatball& fresh, block mozzarella melts best
• Olive oil and butter: are essential for browning and creating a rich gravy base& opt for extra virgin olive oil for a subtle fruity note
• Onions and garlic: build the flavor foundation& pick firm onions and fresh garlic cloves for maximum aroma
• Beef broth: intensifies the gravy&s meaty character& a high-quality, low-sodium option works wonders
• Guinness stout: lends a unique bittersweet richness& choose the freshest stout you can find for the most vibrant flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: adds a tangy depth and a slight sweetness to round out the gravy
• All-purpose flour: thickens the gravy to a luxurious consistency
• Fresh parsley garnish: brightens and adds color just before serving

Detailed Cooking Directions

Build The Meatball Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend all flavors evenly and ensure the meat holds together well.

Fill And Shape The Meatballs:

Take a small handful of the meat mixture and flatten it gently in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Fold the meat fully around the cheese, sealing it inside so nothing melts out while cooking. Shape into smooth, even meatballs.

Brown The Meatballs:

Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned evenly on all sides, about five minutes. Browning seals in the juices and adds layers of flavor. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt gradually. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and soft, about five minutes, creating a sweet, mellow base. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.

Prepare The Gravy Base:

Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for two minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in beef broth and Guinness gradually, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Increase heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Combine Meatballs And Sauce:

Add Worcestershire sauce to the gravy, then nestle the browned meatballs back into the skillet carefully. Turn them gently to coat fully with the rich sauce.

Bake To Finish:

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for twenty to twenty-five minutes until meatballs are cooked through and the gravy has thickened beautifully. Let the meatballs rest briefly before serving to let the flavors settle.

Garnish And Serve:

Sprinkle the entire dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh herb aroma.

One Sunday, this became the centerpiece of a spontaneous family gathering, and the gooey cheese surprised everyone in the best way.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the gravy&s silky texture You can freeze the meatballs separately from the gravy for up to one month& thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and combining for best results

Ingredient Variations

Try substituting mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different melty cheese experience Adding finely chopped mushrooms into the meat mixture gives an earthy dimension For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the gravy or the meat mixture before cooking

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Mashed potatoes create a classic comforting bed for the meatballs and soak up every bit of the gravy Butter steamed green beans or garlic sautéed spinach add a crisp, vibrant contrast A crusty loaf of artisan bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce and making the meal extra satisfying

This recipe has a special place in my kitchen because it combines a little indulgence with down-to-earth comfort. Whenever I need a meal that feels like a warm hug, these stuffed meatballs never fail to deliver.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cheese is used for stuffing?

Fresh mozzarella cut into small cubes is used to fill the meatballs, creating a gooey center once cooked.

→ Can I substitute Guinness with another liquid?

Yes, you can replace Guinness with a dark beer or beef broth for a milder flavor, adjusting seasoning accordingly.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Seal the mozzarella well within the meat mixture to ensure it stays enclosed during cooking.

→ What is the best way to brown the meatballs?

Sear the meatballs in olive oil over medium heat until evenly browned on all sides before baking.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and brown the meatballs beforehand and finish cooking them in the gravy when ready to serve.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or roasted vegetables complement the rich meatballs and gravy nicely.