Introduction: A Comforting Classic with a Delicious Twist
Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, tender meatball, only to discover a molten core of gooey, melted mozzarella. Sounds irresistible, right? That’s exactly what you get with Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella – a dish that perfectly balances savory, cheesy, and herbaceous flavors in every bite.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, a game-day appetizer, or a meal-prep-friendly recipe, these stuffed meatballs check all the boxes. With the perfect blend of fresh spinach, aromatic garlic, and rich mozzarella, they’re bound to become a staple in your home-cooked meals.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make these indulgent meatballs step by step, plus tips for achieving the perfect texture, cooking methods, and delicious pairing ideas. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love These Spinach Garlic Meatballs
- Incredibly Flavorful – The combination of garlic, herbs, and melted cheese creates an explosion of taste.
- Nutritious Yet Indulgent – Spinach adds vitamins and minerals, while mozzarella brings a comforting, creamy bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve them over pasta, in sandwiches, or as a protein-packed snack.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Make a big batch and freeze for later.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.
Ingredients for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Meatball Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (or turkey) | 1 lb |
| Fresh spinach (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Bread crumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Mozzarella cheese (cubed) | 6 oz |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp (for frying, if needed) |
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Fresh parsley for garnish.
- Marinara sauce for serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Spinach Garlic Meatballs
Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients
- Finely chop the fresh spinach.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Cut the mozzarella into small cubes.
Step 2 – Mix and Shape the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, spinach, garlic, Parmesan, bread crumbs, egg, and seasoning.
- Mix gently until well incorporated, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Take a small portion of the mixture, flatten it in your palm, place a mozzarella cube in the center, and carefully roll it into a ball, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
Step 3 – Cooking Methods
Baking Method (Healthier Option)
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the meatballs evenly and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Pan-Frying Method (Crispier Texture)
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the meatballs on all sides until golden brown.
- Reduce heat, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes to ensure they cook through.
Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with marinara sauce, over pasta, or in a sub sandwich.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.