Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the savory flavors of garlic and beef with the freshness of spinach and the gooey richness of melted mozzarella. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, these meatballs are sure to impress family and friends with their flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
The combination of fresh spinach and garlic gives the meatballs a vibrant flavor and a slightly healthier profile without sacrificing taste. Sautéing the spinach before incorporating it into the meat ensures that it is tender and flavorful, while adding moisture and nutrients to the meat mixture. The mozzarella cubes tucked inside each meatball create a delightful surprise, oozing creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite.
To make these meatballs, start by preparing the ingredients. Sauté the spinach in a little olive oil or butter until wilted, then chop it finely. Set it aside to cool slightly. Cut the mozzarella into small cubes, which will be stuffed into the center of each meatball later. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and any other preferred seasonings. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat, which can make the meatballs tough.
Once the mixture is ready, portion it into even-sized balls. Flatten each portion slightly in your hand, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and then wrap the meat around it, rolling into a smooth ball. This step ensures that the cheese is completely enclosed and will melt inside the meatball during cooking.
The meatballs can be baked, pan-fried, or cooked in a sauce. Baking in the oven is a convenient and hands-off method. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Pan-frying provides a crispy exterior and adds extra flavor, but requires more attention. Alternatively, they can be gently simmered in marinara or tomato sauce, allowing the meatballs to absorb additional flavor and creating a ready-to-serve dish.
For added taste, you can brush the meatballs with olive oil before baking or sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese after cooking. Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil also complement the mozzarella and beef beautifully, adding a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
Serving Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella is simple and versatile. They can be enjoyed on their own as a protein-packed snack, served over spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a complete meal, or paired with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. These meatballs also make a perfect appetizer for parties or gatherings, where their cheesy center is always a crowd-pleaser.
Here is a simple recipe for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella:
Ingredients (1 lb scale):
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed and chopped
- 8 oz low-moisture mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Olive oil or cooking spray for baking
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet, sauté spinach in a small amount of olive oil until wilted. Chop finely and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently until just combined.
- Divide the mixture into even portions. Flatten each portion, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and wrap the meat around it to form a smooth ball.
- Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, brush lightly with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Serve hot, alone or with your favorite sauce or side dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
These meatballs are not only delicious but also convenient and versatile. They can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or on the stovetop.
Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that is both indulgent and wholesome. Their combination of juicy beef, flavorful spinach, and melty mozzarella makes them irresistible. Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or party snack, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.