Cheesy Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella Recipe

Tucked inside these succulent spinach garlic meatballs, melty mozzarella creates a delightful surprise that will make you swoon.

Juicy ground meat blends seamlessly with fresh herbs and vibrant greens.

Carefully crafted seasoning ensures each bite bursts with incredible flavor.

Mediterranean influences shine through this classic comfort dish that feels both elegant and comforting.

Italian culinary traditions inspire these remarkable protein-packed spheres of deliciousness.

Soft cheese oozes temptingly when you slice into these perfectly seasoned meatballs.

An irresistible meal awaits you – so roll up your sleeves and start cooking!

Tasty Companions for Spinach Garlic Meatballs

• Pair Perfectly with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio complements the richness of mozzarella and cuts through the meatballs' savory depth, creating a refreshing balance.
• Create Rustic Italian Pasta Companion: Serve over al dente spaghetti or linguine with extra marinara sauce, allowing the meatballs' cheesy center to mingle deliciously with the pasta.
• Elevate with Fresh Herb Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, providing a zesty contrast to the hearty meatballs and cleansing the palate between bites.
• Match with Bold Red Beverage: Select a medium-bodied Chianti or Sangiovese that stands up to the robust meat flavor while enhancing the garlic and spinach notes.

Spinach Stuffed Meatballs Served a Few Ways

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein alternative.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute ground meat with plant-based meat alternatives or finely chopped mushrooms and lentils. Use vegan mozzarella for cheese filling.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip breadcrumbs entirely and use finely grated Parmesan cheese as a binder. Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Remove mozzarella filling and use nutritional yeast for extra flavor. Replace Parmesan with dairy-free cheese or additional herbs like fresh basil.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Each will slightly change the flavor and texture of the meatballs.

• How do I prevent the mozzarella from leaking out?

Ensure the meat completely covers the cheese cube, pinching and sealing the edges well. Chilling the meatballs for 15 minutes before cooking can also help keep the cheese inside.

• Is it necessary to use fresh spinach?

Fresh spinach provides better texture and flavor, but frozen spinach (well-drained) works too. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to prevent soggy meatballs.

• Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs, shape them, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them uncooked for up to a month.

Mozzarella-Stuffed Garlic Meatballs Are a Savory Surprise

• Surprise Inside Delight: Discover meatballs with a molten mozzarella center that creates delightful cheese pulls with every bite.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Prepare these meatballs in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy families seeking delicious dinner solutions.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy as a hearty main course with pasta, a protein-packed appetizer, or a crowd-pleasing party snack that impresses guests.
• Nutrient-Packed Protein: Spinach-infused meatballs deliver extra vegetables and nutrients while maintaining a kid-friendly, savory flavor profile.

Spinach Mozzarella Meatballs Ingredients

• Ground Meat: The base for creating juicy, flavorful meatballs with a rich texture.
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and provides structure to the meatballs.
• Mozzarella: Cheesy center that creates a delightful surprise when melted inside the meatball.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor and helps enhance the overall taste of the meatballs.

• Spinach: Adds nutritional value and a vibrant green color to the meatballs.
• Garlic: Provides a classic, aromatic flavor that complements the meat.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps to hold the meatballs together and create a lighter texture.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a traditional herb blend that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the taste of the meatballs.

• Olive Oil: Used for frying the meatballs or preventing sticking on the baking sheet.
• Marinara Sauce: Optional serving sauce that adds a classic Italian touch.

Mozzarella-Stuffed Garlic Meatballs Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Cooking Zone

Choose between baking or frying.

For baking, warm the oven to 375°F.

For frying, heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Meat Mixture

• Ground meat
• Chopped spinach
• Minced garlic
• Breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Beaten egg
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Stuff with Melty Mozzarella

Take a small portion of meat mixture and flatten it in your palm.

Place a mozzarella cheese cube in the center.

Carefully wrap the meat around the cheese, forming a smooth ball.

Continue until all meat mixture is used.

Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection

Baking Method:

Place meatballs on a greased baking sheet.

Slide into preheated oven and cook for 18-20 minutes.

Rotate meatballs halfway through for even browning.

Frying Method:

Gently place meatballs in hot skillet.

Sear on all sides until golden brown.

Reduce heat and continue cooking until fully done.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Present hot meatballs with marinara sauce.

Pair with pasta or serve as a delightful appetizer.

Enjoy the burst of cheesy, spinachy goodness in every bite!

Stuffed Meatball Tips with Spinach and Mozzarella

• Completely seal mozzarella inside the meat mixture to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
• Add grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach to keep meatballs tender and prevent dryness.
• Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb alternative that maintains texture.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe ground meat consumption.
• Form meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, allowing flavors to meld and making cooking faster.

Keep Stuffed Meatballs Moist and Delicious

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual meatballs in plastic wrap, place in freezer bags, and store for up to 3 months, preserving their delicious flavor and texture.
• Preheat to 350°F, spread meatballs on a baking sheet, and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through, maintaining their juicy interior.
• Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, checking to prevent overcooking and dryness.

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella Recipe

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4.5 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean magic meets comfort with these spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella, a delightful fusion of Italian flavors and wholesome ingredients. Melted cheese nestled inside juicy meatballs promises a delectable experience that will leave you craving more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 lb (453 g) ground beef or turkey
• 4 oz (113 g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1 large egg

Vegetable and Herbs:

• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking or frying)

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Instructions

1. Create a well-blended protein mixture by combining ground meat with finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, whisked egg, aromatic Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Gently massage the ingredients together until uniformly distributed, ensuring no dry pockets remain in the mixture.
3. Divide the meat mixture into equal portions, using clean hands to form uniform spheres.
4. Press a small pocket into the center of each meatball and nestle a compact cube of mozzarella inside.
5. Carefully encase the cheese completely, rolling and sealing the meat to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.
6. For oven preparation, arrange meatballs on a lightly greased baking sheet, spacing them evenly to promote consistent heat circulation.
7. If pan-frying, warm olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat, allowing a gentle sizzle when meatballs are introduced.
8. When baking, roast at 375°F for approximately 20 minutes, rotating midway to ensure uniform golden-brown exterior.
9. For stovetop cooking, sear meatballs until crisp and caramelized, then lower temperature to guarantee thorough internal cooking.
10. Rest meatballs briefly after cooking to allow internal temperatures to stabilize and cheese to set.
11. Present alongside vibrant marinara sauce, atop pasta, or as an elegant appetizer garnished with fresh herbs.

Notes

• Ensure spinach is finely chopped and excess moisture is squeezed out to prevent soggy meatballs.
• Use lean ground meat like beef or turkey for a healthier version while maintaining juiciness.
• Chill the meatballs for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape and prevent cheese from leaking.
• For gluten-free option, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain binding and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg