Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort with a burst of flavor, you’ve come to the right place! These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are truly a gem in my recipe collection. They are not just delicious but also a wonderful way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these meatballs shine on any table and will surely have everyone coming back for more.

What makes this recipe so special is the gooey mozzarella hidden inside each meatball, creating a delightful surprise with every bite. Pair them with your favorite pasta or enjoy them as appetizers, and I promise they will impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, anyone can whip these up in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the cheesy goodness!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them ahead of time and freeze for an easy meal later.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh spinach and garlic add a rich depth of flavor that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them over pasta, as sliders, or on their own as an appetizer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella is a breeze! You’ll find that they are wholesome and straightforward, making this recipe even more approachable for home cooks. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (about 4 oz), sautéed and chopped (or 1/2 cup well-drained frozen spinach)
• 8 oz low-moisture mozzarella, cut into small cubes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations you might want to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add different herbs: Experiment with basil or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try different cheeses: Replace mozzarella with cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the meat with lentils or plant-based ground meat for a delicious vegetarian version.

How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by sautéing minced garlic in olive oil until it becomes fragrant—this step is crucial because it unlocks the rich flavor of garlic. Add in your fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down. Once done, cool it slightly before squeezing out any excess moisture and chopping it finely. This ensures your meatballs won’t be soggy!

Step 2: Mix the Meat

In a large bowl, combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, egg, and your prepared spinach. Gently mix everything together until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Remember, we’re going for juicy!

Step 3: Form and Stuff

Take a portion of the meat mixture in your palm and flatten it slightly. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and carefully seal the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat this process until all your mixture is used up—don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; each one will still be delicious!

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. This step adds flavor through caramelization while keeping them juicy inside.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

You have two options here! You can cover the skillet and let them cook on low heat for an additional 5-7 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through. Alternatively, transfer them to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes for perfectly cooked meatballs.

And there you have it—deliciously juicy Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Making these meatballs is a delightful experience, and a few key tips can help you achieve the best results!

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach gives these meatballs a vibrant color and flavor. While frozen spinach can work in a pinch, the freshness of sautéed spinach adds a lovely texture and taste to the dish.

• Don’t overmix the meat: Gently combine your ingredients to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so mix just until everything is combined.

• Chill before cooking: After forming your meatballs, place them in the fridge for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape during searing and ensures that the cheese melts perfectly inside.

• Experiment with spices: While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices! A pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning can give these meatballs an extra kick.

• Check for doneness: To ensure your meatballs are fully cooked, use a thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). This guarantees they’re juicy while being safe to eat.

How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are versatile and can be presented in many delicious ways! Whether you choose to serve them over pasta, as appetizers, or tucked into sandwiches, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds aromatic notes and brightens up the dish beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan enhances the cheesy flavor and gives a lovely finish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any sauce from the meatballs, making it an irresistible companion.
• Caesar salad: This classic salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the meatballs.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add color and nutrition while complementing the savory profile of the dish.
• Pasta with marinara sauce: Serve these meatballs over spaghetti or penne topped with marinara sauce for a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Now that you have all these serving ideas and tips at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and bring this delicious recipe to life! Enjoy every savory bite of these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, store them, or even freeze them for a busy day. Here’s how to keep your delicious meatballs fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Freezing

• Allow cooked meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the meatballs from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes.
• If reheating thawed meatballs, you can use the microwave for quick warmth or sauté them on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious meatballs!

Can I use different types of cheese in Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for its melting quality, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for different flavor profiles.

How do I know when my Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are fully cooked?

The best way to ensure they are cooked through is to check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can also cut one open; it should be no longer pink inside.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that it may require slightly less cooking time due to lower fat content.

What dishes pair well with Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

These meatballs are versatile! Serve them over pasta, as part of a sub sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella as much as I do! They’re not only packed with flavor but also perfect for any occasion — whether it’s family dinner or casual get-togethers. Remember, cooking should always be fun and rewarding. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and share this delightful dish with loved ones. Happy cooking!