These tasty meatballs are packed with spinach, garlic, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Each bite brings a burst of flavor that makes you smile!
Who doesn’t love melted cheese in the middle? Making these meatballs is super fun, and they are perfect for a cozy dinner or party snacks. Yum! 😋
I always serve them with some marinara sauce and pasta for a yummy meal. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to add some greens to dinner—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is versatile for meatballs, but mixing in ground pork gives extra flavor and juiciness. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Using a mix of meats can really enhance the flavor!
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for its vibrant color and nutrients. If you don’t have fresh, you can use frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and squeeze out extra moisture before adding it to the mix.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too, but use it sparingly since it’s more concentrated—start with about 1/4 teaspoon.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs help bind the mixture. If you’re gluten-free, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I often make my own by toasting and grinding leftover bread!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice savory note. Grated Pecorino Romano can be a great alternative, or for a milder flavor, try using cheddar. I love the little tanginess that Parm gives to meatballs!
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Super Tender and Not Dry?
Getting meatballs just right can be tricky. Here are some tips to keep them moist and tender:
- Don’t overwork the meat mixture—mix it gently, just until combined.
- Make sure to include breadcrumbs and egg for binding, which also helps hold moisture.
- Fry them until golden brown on the outside, but make sure they’re cooked through on the inside by covering the pan during the final cooking phase.
- Letting them rest before serving helps keep them juicy.
How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend around 45 minutes to have these flavorful meatballs ready to serve. It’s a tasty dish that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute or until it smells incredible. Then, toss in the chopped spinach and cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s wilted. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool a little.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or your choice of meat), the sautéed spinach, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well using your hands or a spoon until it’s nicely combined.
3. Form the Meatballs:
Preheat another large skillet over medium heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. While it’s heating up, take a portion of the meat mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and lovingly fold the meat around it. Roll it into a ball and set it aside. Repeat this process with the rest of the mixture.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Once your skillet is hot, carefully place the meatballs in the pan. Fry them until they’re beautifully browned on all sides, which will take about 3-4 minutes for each side. Don’t rush this step; the color makes them extra tasty!
5. Finish Cooking:
After browning, cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the meatballs cook for another 10-12 minutes. This helps them cook through and melts the cheese inside. Make sure to check that the meatballs are fully cooked and the cheese is gooey and delicious.
6. Let Them Rest and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and let the meatballs sit for a few minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to settle a bit. Serve them warm on their own, with a tasty marinara sauce, or paired with a fresh salad. Enjoy your mouth-watering meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that they may have less fat, so you might need to adjust cooking times a bit since they can dry out more easily. Adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture can help keep them juicy!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the meat mixture. You can also substitute with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor!
Can I Prepare the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the meatballs up to the frying step, then place them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just heat your skillet as directed and proceed with frying. They can also be frozen; just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or in the microwave until heated through!
