Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a delightful combination of juicy meat and flavorful fillings. The tender ground beef is complemented by the savory taste of sautéed spinach and garlic, while the gooey mozzarella center adds a touch of indulgence. Perfect for a family dinner, elegant gatherings, or casual meals, these meatballs are versatile and sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: Each meatball is filled with aromatic garlic and fresh spinach, creating a delicious bite every time.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up these meatballs in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them over pasta, as appetizers, or in sandwiches — they fit any occasion seamlessly.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy center is sure to please picky eaters and introduce more greens into their diet without complaints.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze them for later use. They reheat beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Spatula or tongs
• Baking sheet (if baking)
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing the meatballs to achieve that golden brown crust.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for transferring meatballs to the oven if you choose that cooking method.

Ingredients

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella feature fresh ingredients that bring out wonderful flavors.

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (about 4 oz), sautéed and chopped (or 1/2 cup well-drained frozen spinach)
• 8 oz low-moisture mozzarella, cut into small cubes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

In a skillet with olive oil, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Cool slightly, then squeeze out moisture and chop finely.

Step 2: Mix the Meat

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, salt, pepper, egg, and chopped spinach. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 3: Form and Stuff

Flatten a portion of meat in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and seal the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear meatballs in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Option 1: Cover skillet and cook on low for an additional 5–7 minutes.
Option 2: Transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes.

Enjoy your flavorful Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella!

How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are incredibly versatile. You can serve them in various ways that enhance their delicious flavor and delightful texture.

Over Pasta

• Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine, topped with marinara sauce for a classic Italian dish.

In a Sandwich

• Place the meatballs in a sub roll, add some marinara and melted cheese for a hearty meatball sandwich perfect for lunch.

As an Appetizer

• Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve them with dipping sauces like marinara or garlic aioli for a fantastic appetizer at parties.

On a Salad

• Slice the meatballs and toss them on a fresh green salad, along with cherry tomatoes and Italian dressing for a balanced meal.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Pair the meatballs with fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome dinner option that complements their rich flavors.

How to Perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

To achieve the best results with your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality ground beef will enhance the flavor and texture of your meatballs significantly.

• Don’t overmix: Combining ingredients just until they are mixed ensures your meatballs remain tender and avoid becoming tough.

• Chill before cooking: Refrigerating the formed meatballs for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while cooking.

• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on cooking times to ensure your meatballs stay juicy. Overcooking can lead to dryness.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other herbs or spices like Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to customize your flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

When serving these delightful meatballs, consider pairing them with some tasty side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread
   A crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the meatballs.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.

3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the savory meatball flavors.

4. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side that pairs well with hearty sauces from the meatballs.

5. Zucchini Noodles
   For a low-carb option, try zucchini noodles topped with marinara sauce alongside your stuffed meatballs.

6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, making it an excellent accompaniment to the rich flavors of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making delicious Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• handling of the spinach: Overcooking or undercooking the spinach can affect flavor. Always sauté until just wilted and then chop finely.
• mixing the meat too much: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix gently until just combined for a tender texture.
• forgetting the moisture: Not squeezing out excess moisture from the spinach can make your meatballs soggy. Be sure to remove as much water as possible before mixing.
• using low-quality cheese: Cheaper mozzarella may not melt well. Opt for good-quality low-moisture mozzarella for a gooey filling.
• crowding the skillet: Searing too many meatballs at once can lower the pan temperature. Cook in batches to ensure even browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to your chosen container.

Reheating Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water and cover on low heat until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

Yes, ground turkey works well and will still produce flavorful meatballs. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly.

How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). You can also check that they are no longer pink inside.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them before cooking. Just thaw and cook when you’re ready to enjoy.

What sauce pairs well with Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

A simple marinara sauce or creamy alfredo goes beautifully with these meatballs.

Final Thoughts

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They are perfect over pasta, as appetizers, or even on their own. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices!