Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy beef meatballs with sautéed spinach, garlic, and gooey mozzarella cheese. They’re versatile enough for a cozy family dinner, a party appetizer, or a satisfying sandwich filling. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, making these meatballs a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful combination: The mix of ground beef, garlic, and fresh spinach creates a deliciously rich taste.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile serving options: Serve them over pasta, as appetizers, or in sandwiches to suit any meal.
• Impressive presentation: Stuffed with melty mozzarella, these meatballs look as good as they taste.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing meatballs to achieve that golden-brown crust.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space to cook multiple meatballs evenly in the oven.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping spinach and mincing garlic efficiently.

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Ingredients

For these delightful Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, gather the following ingredients:

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 cheese, 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 with 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 golden brown.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

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

Enjoy your delicious Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella!

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 to elevate your meal experience.

Over Pasta

• Serve these meatballs on a bed of spaghetti or penne, drizzled with marinara sauce for a classic Italian dish.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Layer the meatballs in a hoagie roll, add marinara sauce, and top with melted mozzarella for a hearty sandwich.

As Appetizers

• Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping at parties or gatherings.

With Salad

• Pair the meatballs with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal option that balances flavors and textures.

On Pizza

• Slice the meatballs and sprinkle them on top of your favorite pizza, along with extra cheese and herbs for an indulgent treat.

In Soup

• Add the meatballs to a rich tomato soup or broth-based vegetable soup for added protein and flavor.

How to Perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

To achieve the best results when making these meatballs, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality ground beef enhance flavor and texture, making your meatballs more delicious.
• Don’t overmix: Gently mix the meatball ingredients to keep them tender; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Chill before cooking: Allow the formed meatballs to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.
• Sear properly: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the meatballs. A good sear adds flavor and prevents sticking.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to adjust seasonings like herbs or spices based on your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfectly toasted garlic bread complements the flavors of the meatballs and makes for an excellent appetizer.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color, nutrition, and flavor variety to your plate.

3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with hearty meatballs.

4. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a mild accompaniment that absorbs sauces beautifully.

5. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and balance out the savory flavors of the stuffed meatballs.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini noodles topped with marinara sauce as an alternative base.

7. Baked Polenta
   Slices of baked polenta create a unique base that holds up well under rich sauces from the meatballs.

8. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatballs while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella can be simple, but some common missteps can lead to disappointing results. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the spinach: This can result in a mushy texture. Sauté just until wilted for the best flavor and texture.
• Using too much moisture: Excess moisture from the spinach can make the meatballs tough. Ensure you squeeze out extra liquid before mixing.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not allowing meatballs to rest can cause them to fall apart during cooking. Chill for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
• Not seasoning enough: Underseasoned meatballs can taste bland. Be generous with salt and pepper, and consider adding herbs for extra flavor.
• Overmixing the meat mixture: Mixing too vigorously can lead to dense meatballs. Mix gently until ingredients are just combined for a tender bite.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

• Place meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers, where they will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking regularly until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still yield tasty Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair perfectly with pasta, rice, or even as sliders on buns. They also make great appetizers!

How do I prevent my cheese from leaking out?

Ensure the meat is well-sealed around the mozzarella by pinching it tightly. Chilling the formed meatballs also helps.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

You can easily make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

How do I customize these meatballs?

Feel free to add different herbs like basil or oregano, or swap mozzarella for your favorite cheese.

Final Thoughts

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them as a main dish, appetizer, or even in sandwiches. Customize them with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a flavorful meal that everyone will love!