Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances flavor and comfort, these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are just what you need! Juicy meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella and enriched with sautéed spinach and garlic are not just delicious; they also make your kitchen smell incredible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe brings smiles to the table every time.

I love how versatile these meatballs are. You can serve them over pasta, as delightful appetizers, or even tucked into a warm sandwich. They’re sure to impress everyone who takes a bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy surprise inside each meatball.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep these meatballs ahead of time, making weeknight meals a breeze.
• Bursting with flavor: The combination of spinach and garlic makes every bite irresistible.
• Perfect for any occasion: These meatballs shine at casual dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh, wholesome ingredients makes cooking so much more enjoyable! For these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, 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

This recipe is so flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Change up the cheese: Use provolone or cheddar instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to the mixture if you like a little heat in your meatballs.

How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by heating some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until it’s fragrant—this step is crucial because it releases those wonderful flavors into your dish. Next, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Once done, let it cool slightly before squeezing out any excess moisture and chopping it finely. This ensures that your meat mixture won’t be too watery!

Step 2: Mix the Meat

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, egg, and that lovely sautéed spinach we prepared earlier. Mix gently until everything is just combined; over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 3: Form and Stuff

Take a portion of the meat mixture in your palm and flatten it slightly. Place a cube of mozzarella right in the center and carefully seal the meat around it to form a ball. Be sure to repeat this process until all the mixture is used up—each one is going to be a cheesy delight!

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

In your skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat again. Sear those beautiful meatballs in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. This step adds delicious flavor through caramelization!

Step 5: Finish Cooking

You have two great options here!
– Option 1: Cover your skillet and cook on low heat for 5–7 more minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.
– Option 2: Alternatively, transfer them to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10–12 minutes. Either way, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked meatballs!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella! Serve them up hot and watch everyone rave about this amazing dish!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Making these meatballs is a delightful experience, and a few tips can help ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant flavor and texture to the meatballs. If using frozen, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
• Don’t overmix the meat: Gently combine the ingredients to maintain tenderness. Overmixing can lead to tougher meatballs, so mix just until everything is incorporated.
• Seal the cheese well: When forming the meatballs, ensure the mozzarella is fully enclosed in beef. This prevents it from leaking out during cooking and helps keep your meatballs juicy.
• Control the heat: Searing at medium heat allows for a nice brown crust without burning. Patience is key; don’t rush this step!
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like basil or oregano for added depth of flavor. Herbs can transform the taste profile and make your dish even more special.

How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of torn basil adds freshness and color, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Parmesan shavings: A few delicate shavings of Parmesan cheese on top provide a savory finish that complements the meatballs beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Pasta with marinara sauce: A classic choice! Serve these meatballs over spaghetti or any pasta of your choice, topped with a rich marinara sauce for an Italian feast.
• Garlic bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. It’s a simple yet delightful addition to your meal.
• Steamed vegetables: Brightly colored steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add nutrition and balance to your dish while providing a lovely contrast.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, serve these meatballs over cauliflower rice. It’s light yet filling, allowing the flavors of the meatballs to shine.

Enjoy diving into this delicious recipe, and I hope you find joy in every bite! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may come up while making these delicious meatballs!

Can I use another type of cheese instead of mozzarella in Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella adds a lovely gooey texture, you can substitute with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavors.

How can I adjust the recipe for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella to be gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

What should I serve with Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

These meatballs pair beautifully with pasta, rice, or even in a sub sandwich. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables would make great sides too!

How long do Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella take to cook?

The total cooking time is about 20 minutes after preparation, making this a quick and delicious weeknight meal option!

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 offer a delightful surprise inside. It’s always wonderful to gather friends and family around the table to share delicious food. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!