Indulge in these irresistibly juicy Low Sodium Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs, a healthier twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Packed with lean ground beef, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and fragrant Italian herbs, these oven-baked meatballs are a guilt-free way to enjoy a protein-packed meal. The star of the show? Gooey, melty low-sodium mozzarella cheese tucked inside each meatball, creating a delightful surprise with every bite. Perfectly seasoned and brushed with olive oil for a golden finish, these meatballs pair beautifully with a low-sodium marinara sauce or roasted vegetables. Ready in under an hour, they make a crowd-pleasing appetizer or satisfying main course for the whole family!
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with non-stick spray.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, tomato paste, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, black pepper, and half of the chopped parsley. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Cut the mozzarella cheese into small cubes, roughly 1/2-inch in size.
Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and gently form a small patty. Place a cheese cube in the center and wrap the meat around it, forming a ball. Ensure the cheese is completely enclosed by the meat.
Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes, arranging the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the meatballs lightly with olive oil to help them brown.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and no longer pink inside.
Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining chopped parsley before serving.
Serve immediately as a main dish or appetizer, paired with your favorite low-sodium marinara sauce or a side of vegetables.
Calories |
1789 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 105.4 g | 135% | |
| Saturated Fat | 41.3 g | 206% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 610 mg | 203% | |
| Sodium | 872 mg | 38% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 56.2 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.8 g | 31% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.3 g | ||
| Protein | 163.1 g | 326% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.4 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 1026 mg | 79% | |
| Iron | 18.8 mg | 104% | |
| Potassium | 2203 mg | 47% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.