Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, bursting with flavor and gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a tasty appetizer, these meatballs bring together sautéed spinach and garlic, creating a delightful combination that’s sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Each meatball is filled with savory mozzarella and infused with fresh spinach and garlic flavors.
• Versatile dish: Serve them over pasta, in sandwiches, or as appetizers at your next party.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time.
• Meal prep friendly: These meatballs freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
• Kid-approved: The cheesy center makes them appealing to children while still being nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet (if baking)
• Spatula or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for thoroughly combining the ingredients without any mess.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing the meatballs for a delicious golden crust before finishing the cooking process.
• Baking sheet: Useful if you choose to bake the meatballs for an even cook.

Ingredients

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella require a select range of ingredients that come together beautifully.

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. Then add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Once cooked, cool slightly before squeezing out excess moisture and chopping finely.

Step 2: Mix the Meat

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

Step 3: Form and Stuff

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

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 are golden brown on all sides.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

You have two options to finish cooking:
1. Cover the skillet and lower the heat to cook on low for an additional 5–7 minutes.
2. Alternatively, transfer them to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes until fully cooked through.

Enjoy these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Over Pasta

• Pair the meatballs with your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or penne, and drizzle with marinara sauce for a hearty dish.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Stuff the meatballs into a crusty sub roll, add marinara sauce and sprinkle with extra cheese for a delightful sandwich.

As Appetizers

• Serve them on toothpicks as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering. They’re sure to be a hit!

With Salad

• Place the meatballs on a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette for a fresh and tasty salad option.

On Pizza

• Top your homemade pizza with these meatballs, adding extra cheese and vegetables for a unique twist on traditional toppings.

How to Perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your meatballs, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and garlic enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Chill before cooking: Letting the formed meatballs chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before cooking. Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Sear properly: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding meatballs. A good sear locks in flavors and improves texture.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Looking for sides to complement your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella? Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter complements the flavors of the meatballs wonderfully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until tender make a colorful side.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a crunchy contrast to the meaty dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds nutrition and brightness.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes an excellent base that pairs well with savory meatballs.
6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a comforting side that balances out the richness of the meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome.

• Using too much moisture: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the spinach as possible before mixing it into the meat. Excess moisture can make your meatballs soggy.
• Overmixing the meat: Gently mix the meat and other ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs instead of tender ones.
• Not sealing the cheese properly: When forming the meatballs, ensure that the mozzarella is fully enclosed in the meat mixture. If not sealed well, it may leak during cooking.
• Cooking at too high a temperature: Searing at high heat can cause the outside to brown too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked. Opt for medium heat for an even cook.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your mixture before forming into balls. You may need to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

• Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are cooked?

Your meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) or when they are no longer pink inside.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well and is a leaner option for these meatballs while still providing great flavor.

What can I serve with Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

These versatile meatballs pair beautifully with pasta, in sandwiches, or served over rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add spices like crushed red pepper for heat or substitute different cheeses like provolone for variety!

Final Thoughts

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as appetizers or main dishes, they can adapt to suit various meals. Try customizing them with different herbs and cheeses to create your unique version!