Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s just bursting with flavor, then you’ve come to the right place! These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella have become a family favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share the love with you. They are not only juicy and delicious but also packed with nutritious spinach and gooey mozzarella that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these meatballs are the perfect choice to impress your loved ones.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to prepare. With simple ingredients that you might already have on hand, you’ll be enjoying these delightful meatballs in no time. Trust me; they are perfect for all occasions — from cozy family dinners to fun get-togethers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these meatballs ready to cook in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy surprise inside each meatball!
• Make-ahead convenience: These meatballs freeze beautifully, making them great for meal prep.
• Versatile serving options: Serve over pasta, as finger food at parties, or tucked into a sandwich for a tasty lunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella. Each component adds its own touch of flavor and nutrition, making this dish not only delicious but also satisfying.

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

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add different greens: Kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach for a new twist.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for unique flavors.
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture if you like a bit of heat!

How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

In a skillet with olive oil, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. This step not only enhances the flavor but also infuses the oil with that lovely garlic aroma. Next, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly before squeezing out any excess moisture and chopping finely. This helps prevent soggy meatballs.

Step 2: Mix the Meat

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, egg, and your chopped spinach mixture. Mix gently until just combined — avoid overmixing so your meatballs stay tender and juicy.

Step 3: Form and Stuff

Take a portion of your meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella right in the center and carefully seal the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat this process until all your mixture has been shaped into delightful little meatballs ready for cooking!

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear those beautiful meatballs in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. This step adds an amazing texture while locking in all that cheesy goodness inside!

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Now comes the final touch! You have two options here:
1. Cover your skillet and cook on low heat for an additional 5–7 minutes so they can finish cooking through.
2. Alternatively, transfer them to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10–12 minutes until fully cooked.

And there you have it! Enjoy serving these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella as part of your next meal — I promise they will be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Making these meatballs is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your cooking game!

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant flavor and nutrient boost that frozen spinach simply can’t match. It also helps create a more appealing texture in your meatballs.
• Don’t overmix the meat: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender and juicy. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs that lose their deliciousness.
• Chill before cooking: If time allows, refrigerate the formed meatballs for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step helps them hold their shape during searing and ensures a perfect crust.
• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for added flavor variations. Each cheese melts differently, giving you unique textures and tastes!
• Double the recipe: These tasty meatballs freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep! Prepare a double batch and store half for an easy weeknight dinner.

How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are incredibly versatile, making them great for various occasions. Here are some fun ideas on how to present them!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that complements the garlic and spinach beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan enhances the savory notes of the dish while adding rich flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any sauce leftover from the meatballs, providing a delightful crunch alongside their juicy goodness.
• Pasta: Serve these meatballs over your favorite pasta tossed in marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal that everyone will love!
• Steamed vegetables: Freshly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients to your plate, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, serve these meatballs over cauliflower rice. It’s a light yet satisfying alternative that pairs well with the flavors of garlic and spinach.

Enjoy crafting this delicious dish that will surely impress your family and friends! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily store leftovers, freeze them for later, or reheat them quickly without losing any of their deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover meatballs in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Freezing

• Allow cooked meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave on medium power until heated through, about 1-2 minutes per meatball.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful dish, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions that may help.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute. Just keep in mind that turkey meat can be leaner than beef, so consider adding a bit more olive oil or breadcrumbs to maintain moisture.

How long do Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these meatballs will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat them before enjoying!

Can I bake the Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella instead of searing them?

Yes, you can bake them! After forming the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

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

These tasty meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even tucked into sandwiches. A side salad or steamed veggies would also complement this dish nicely!

Are these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just check your labels and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella as much as I do! They’re not just a meal; they’re a comforting hug on a plate that everyone will love. Feel free to get creative with seasonings and sides—this recipe is all about personal touches. Happy cooking!