Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Name: Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 cups baby spinach, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for stuffing); 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Published: April 12, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation means even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen
The flavor profile combines savory garlic with fresh spinach and melty mozzarella for an unforgettable dish
Their visual appeal makes them a centerpiece on any dinner table, ensuring everyone will want a taste
Plus, their versatility allows you to serve them as appetizers or main dishes with pasta or salad

I remember the first time I made these meatballs for my friends; I could hardly keep up with their requests for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to keep it juicy without being greasy, nobody likes soggy meatballs!
Fresh Spinach: Opt for baby spinach for its tender texture and vibrant color; it wilts perfectly into the mix.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch, don’t even think about using powdered garlic here!
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to bind everything together nicely; they soak up flavor like little sponges. For more inspiration, check out this Irish soda bread recipe.
Eggs: One or two eggs help hold your meatballs together without making them too dense.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is key; it melts beautifully inside each meatball, creating that gooey surprise. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mozzarella bites recipe.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives those flavors a true Italian flair, think basil, oregano, and thyme. bright and refreshing seafood.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds depth and richness, a sprinkle on top before baking takes it over the top.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; don’t skimp here!
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps brown those meatballs beautifully while adding extra flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter; it’s always easier when you can see what you’re working with! Chop the spinach finely if needed and mince the garlic cloves.

Mix the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and half of the mozzarella cheese. spinach and cheese delights Mix until everything is well combined but don’t overdo it!

Form the Meatballs: With clean hands (and maybe some upbeat music), roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Remember to stuff each one with a generous amount of remaining mozzarella in the middle for that cheesy surprise.

Sear Those Meatballs!: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear each meatball until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, making sure to enjoy that sizzle sound!

Bake for Perfection!: Transfer your seared meatballs to a baking dish lined with foil or parchment paper. perfect garlic side dish Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

Add Final Touches!: Remove from oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Allow them to rest for a few minutes, this will help keep those cheesy centers intact when bitten into!

Now you have Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella ready to impress family and friends! Enjoy them hot out of the oven or let them cool down for meal prep during busier weeks ahead. Happy cooking!

You Must Know

These spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella are not just flavorful; they bring a delightful surprise in every bite
The combination of textures—from juicy meat to gooey cheese—creates a mouthwatering experience
Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic and spinach before mixing them into the ground meat. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully and the spinach wilts perfectly, enhancing the overall taste of your meatballs.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the mozzarella for feta cheese or add some crushed red pepper for an extra kick. You can also use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they maintain their delicious texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Using fresh garlic instead of powdered adds vibrant flavor
Don’t overmix the meat mixture; this keeps your meatballs tender
Experiment with herbs like basil or oregano to elevate your dish further

Cooking these spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table, where everyone couldn’t wait for seconds!

FAQ

Can I freeze spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella?

Absolutely! Freeze them uncooked or cooked for up to three months without losing flavor.

What should I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even on a sub sandwich for a tasty meal.

How do I know when my meatballs are cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

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