Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table, you’ve found it! These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a favorite in my home because they combine the heartiness of meatballs with the vibrant taste of spinach and the delightful surprise of gooey mozzarella in every bite. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

With their juicy texture and satisfying flavors, these meatballs are perfect over pasta, as finger food at parties, or even tucked into a sandwich for a delicious lunch. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious meatballs in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these flavorful bites — they’ll never guess they’re packed with spinach!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them in advance and store in the fridge or freezer for easy meals later.
• Versatile serving options: Serve them over pasta, as appetizers, or in sandwiches—the possibilities are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! These are items you likely already have on hand, making this dish not only delicious but also convenient.

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 wonderfully flexible! Here are a few ideas to switch things up based on your preferences:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add spices: Experiment with herbs like oregano or basil to bring more flavor to the meat mixture.
• Cheese alternatives: Try using provolone or cheddar if mozzarella isn’t your favorite.
• Veggie boost: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

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 it becomes fragrant. This step is crucial because it releases the garlic’s natural oils and adds depth of flavor. Then add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Allow it to cool slightly before squeezing out any excess moisture and chopping it finely. This ensures our meatballs won’t be too watery!

Step 2: Mix the Meat

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, egg, and your chopped spinach. Mix gently until just combined—this is important! Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. We want them tender and juicy.

Step 3: Form and Stuff

Take a portion of your meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella right in the center and seal the meat around it tightly to form a ball. Repeat this process until all your mixture is used up. The excitement of biting into gooey cheese makes these meatballs truly special!

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear your meatballs in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. This not only gives them fantastic color but also locks in those delicious juices.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

You have two options here:
– Option 1: Cover the skillet and cook on low for an additional 5–7 minutes.
– Option 2: Transfer them to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10–12 minutes until cooked through.

And there you have it — perfectly cooked Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella that are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Making these meatballs is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate them to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and garlic will enhance the flavor significantly. They provide a vibrant taste that dried or frozen alternatives simply can’t match.

• Don’t overmix the meat: Gently combining the ingredients helps keep your meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Chill before cooking: If time allows, chill the formed meatballs for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape during cooking and ensures that gooey mozzarella stays inside.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper levels according to your preference. You can also add red pepper flakes for some heat if you like!

• Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella is delicious, feel free to try other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just make sure they melt well!

How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and enhances the dish’s aroma.
• Grated Parmesan: A light dusting of Parmesan on top just before serving elevates the flavor and gives a lovely finish.

Side Dishes

• Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti served with marinara sauce complements the meatballs beautifully, creating a comforting meal that everyone loves.

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any sauce and adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes not only add nutrition but also create a vibrant plate that looks as good as it tastes.

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides freshness that balances out the richness of the meatballs.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are perfect for meal prep! They can be made in advance and stored for quick, delicious meals throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• To keep them from drying out, drizzle a little olive oil over the meatballs before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Place uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date; they’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• For frozen meatballs, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, you can:
• Cook them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water until heated through.
• Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

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

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still yield delicious results. Just be mindful that turkey may need less cooking time.

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

These flavorful meatballs pair wonderfully with spaghetti, zoodles, or even as sliders on your favorite bread. You can also serve them with marinara sauce for dipping!

Can I make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones, and you’re all set. Enjoy this recipe without worry!

How do I know when my meatballs are fully cooked?

To ensure they are safe to eat, check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella as much as I do! They bring together wonderful flavors and textures that make every bite special. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these meatballs are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!