Looking for a crowd-pleasing, cheesy dish that’s both savory and nutritious? These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are packed with flavor and have a delightful gooey surprise inside. Perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals, they offer a balance of hearty meat, healthy greens, and indulgent mozzarella.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Gooey Mozzarella Center: Each bite reveals a delicious, melty mozzarella filling that elevates the dish.
- Nutritious and Tasty: Spinach adds a healthy element while garlic and herbs provide tons of flavor.
- Versatile Meal: Whether served with pasta, as appetizers, or in sliders, these meatballs fit any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 oz mozzarella, cubed
For the Marinara Sauce (optional):
- 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, spinach, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform consistency.
Step 2: Form and Stuff the Meatballs
Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and wrap the meat around it, forming a ball. Ensure that the cheese is completely covered to prevent leaks during cooking.
Step 3: Cooking the Meatballs
You can either bake or fry the meatballs, depending on your preference:
- Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and browned.
- Skillet Method: Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned and the meat is cooked through (about 10-12 minutes).
Step 4: Serve
Serve the meatballs on their own as appetizers or pair them with pasta and marinara sauce for a main course. They’re also delicious with a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
Tips for Success:
- Seal the Meatballs Well: Ensure that the meat completely covers the mozzarella to prevent the cheese from oozing out while cooking.
- Customize Your Meatballs: Feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano to the meat mixture for additional flavor. You can also experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda.
- Healthy Twist: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make a leaner version of these meatballs.
Pairing Suggestions:
These stuffed meatballs are incredibly versatile and pair well with various sides:
- Pasta: Toss the meatballs in marinara sauce and serve with spaghetti or fettuccine.
- Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or asparagus add a fresh, healthy touch to the meal.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce and add a satisfying crunch to the meal.
Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella are tender and flavorful, with a gooey mozzarella center. Perfect for a satisfying dinner or appetizer, especially when served with marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 12 small mozzarella balls (or 1 cup mozzarella, cubed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- For the sauce (optional):
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Divide the mixture into 12 portions. Flatten each portion slightly and place a small mozzarella ball (or cube) in the center. Shape the meat around the mozzarella, forming it into a ball, ensuring the cheese is fully sealed inside.
- Cook the meatballs:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- If you prefer, you can also bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes on a lined baking sheet.
- Prepare the sauce (optional):
- Heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat. Simmer for 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for a few more minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve:
- Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil, over pasta, rice, or as a stand-alone dish with a side of marinara sauce.
Notes
- Make sure the meatballs are sealed well to prevent the mozzarella from leaking during cooking.
- You can substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the meatballs.
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: italian, American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 22g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the meat mixture. This prevents the meatballs from becoming too watery.
How can I store leftovers? Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave. If you want to freeze them, do so before cooking—lay the meatballs on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
What’s the best way to reheat them? For best results, reheat the meatballs in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps retain the crispy exterior. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works as well, though the meatballs may be slightly less crispy.
These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a delicious, versatile dish that combines the richness of garlic and beef with the gooey goodness of melted mozzarella. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them as appetizers, a main course, or even in sandwiches. Plus, with the added spinach, you get a nutritious twist on a family favorite!