Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed spinach and garlic to the mixture and stir everything together until fully incorporated. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled into meatballs. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Stuff the Meatballs with Mozzarella

Now comes the fun part! Take a small amount of the meatball mixture and flatten it slightly in your hands. Place a small piece of mozzarella cheese in the center and fold the meat around it, sealing it completely. Roll the meatball into a smooth ball, ensuring the mozzarella is fully enclosed. Repeat this process with the rest of the meat mixture, making sure each meatball is stuffed with cheese.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

You can cook these meatballs in two ways: baking or pan-frying.

• Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
• Pan-Frying: Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally to brown on all sides. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven or skillet. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the cheese inside set slightly. These meatballs are perfect on their own, with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or served over a bed of pasta.

Serving Suggestions

• With Marinara Sauce: For a classic Italian dish, serve these meatballs with marinara sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top.
• Over Pasta: Serve the meatballs on top of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a satisfying meal. The melted mozzarella will pair perfectly with the pasta and sauce.
• In a Sub Roll: For a fun twist, stuff these meatballs into a sub roll and top with marinara and melted mozzarella for a delicious meatball sub sandwich.
• As an Appetizer: These meatballs make a great appetizer at parties or gatherings. Serve them with toothpicks and marinara for dipping.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of spinach, garlic, and mozzarella inside the meatballs creates a rich and flavorful dish that’s hearty yet light. The spinach not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness of the beef and cheese. The garlic infuses the meatballs with a warm, aromatic flavor, while the mozzarella gives them an irresistible gooey surprise.

Baking or pan-frying the meatballs ensures they get a nice golden-brown crust on the outside while remaining juicy and tender inside. The addition of mozzarella ensures every bite is filled with cheesy goodness, making this recipe both satisfying and indulgent.

Conclusion

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a delicious and easy way to elevate your weeknight dinners. Whether you serve them on their own, with pasta, or in a sandwich, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with the whole family. The combination of spinach, garlic, and melty mozzarella inside perfectly seasoned meatballs creates a meal that’s as tasty as it is satisfying.

This recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs, and they can easily be made ahead of time for meal prep. No matter how you serve them, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite.