Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella Recipe
These spinach garlic meatballs are a delicious and protein-packed meal, featuring ground beef mixed with fresh spinach and garlic, stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese. They’re perfect for easy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a comforting weekend dish that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 15 meatballs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Filling and Cooking
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.
- Stuff Meatballs: Take 1–2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a frozen mozzarella cube (freeze for 10 minutes beforehand to prevent leaks) in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around the cheese and seal it completely. Roll into a ball shape.
- Cook Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides, cooking approximately 4–5 minutes per side, until they are cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve: Serve the meatballs hot, paired with marinara sauce or over noodles. Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Freeze mozzarella cubes for 10 minutes before stuffing to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
- These meatballs taste even better the next day and make excellent leftovers.
