Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella 🍴🧀

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a delicious twist on classic meatballs. Packed with fresh spinach, aromatic garlic, and gooey mozzarella cheese in the center, these meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, these cheesy stuffed meatballs are sure to be a hit!

Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering Spinach Garlic Meatballs step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Cheesy Surprise : Each bite reveals a gooey, melty mozzarella center.
2. Packed with Flavor : Fresh spinach, garlic, and Parmesan add layers of savory goodness.
3. Versatile : Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even in sandwiches.
4. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable.
5. Kid-Friendly : A fun and cheesy dish that kids will love.

Ingredients

(Makes 12–15 meatballs)

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork ) 🥩
• 1 cup fresh spinach , finely chopped 🥬
• 3 cloves garlic , minced 🧄
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs 🍞
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
• 1 large egg 🥚
• ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper ⚫
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing ) 🧀
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking ) 🫒

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef , finely chopped spinach , minced garlic , breadcrumbs , grated Parmesan cheese , egg , salt , and pepper .
2. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Shape and Stuff the Meatballs

1. Divide the meat mixture into 12–15 equal portions , about 1–2 tablespoons each , depending on your preferred size.
2. Flatten one portion into a disc in your palm. Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese (about ½ teaspoon) in the center.
3. Carefully wrap the meat around the cheese, sealing it completely to prevent the cheese from leaking during cooking. Roll into a ball.
   • Tip : If the cheese is exposed, patch with extra meat mixture.
4. Repeat with the remaining meat and cheese.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the meatballs to the skillet, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook for 8–10 minutes , turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C ).
   • Optional : For baking, place the meatballs on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes , flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer the meatballs to a serving plate.
2. Serve warm with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or your favorite dipping sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Spinach : Fresh spinach adds moisture and nutrients—avoid using frozen spinach, as it can make the meatballs soggy.
2. Add Heat : Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
3. Make Ahead : Assemble the meatballs ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 day before cooking.
4. Freeze for Later : Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
5. Switch Up the Cheese : Try provolone, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor profile.

Perfect Pairings

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella pair beautifully with:

• Marinara Sauce : Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping or spooned over pasta.
• Garlic Bread : Pair with crusty garlic bread or breadsticks for soaking up juices.
• Pasta : Serve with spaghetti, penne, or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a cold soda for refreshment.

Nutritional Information (Per Meatball, Approx.)

(Based on 15 meatballs)

• Calories : ~120 kcal
• Protein : ~9g
• Carbohydrates : ~3g
• Fat : ~8g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a juicy, flavorful, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, these meatballs deliver on taste and texture. The combination of tender meat, savory spinach, and gooey cheese creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is fun to eat.

The best part? They’re endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients, adjust the flavors, or pair them with different sides to make them your own. So grab your ground beef, chop that spinach, and get ready to enjoy a treat that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.