Introduction
If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-packed dinner, look no further than these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella. Each bite is tender and garlicky with a gooey, melted cheese surprise inside. Whether served with marinara sauce for dipping or plated over pasta, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at your table.
With fresh spinach, Parmesan, herbs, and plenty of garlic, these meatballs are not only delicious but sneakily nutritious. And let’s be honest—anything with melty mozzarella in the middle is automatically amazing.
Why I Love This Recipe
These meatballs are everything I want in a comfort dish:
- Juicy and tender, thanks to the right mix of meat, egg, and breadcrumbs
- Bursting with flavor from garlic, herbs, and Parmesan
- A melty mozzarella center that takes them over the top
- Simple enough for weeknights, special enough for guests
- Freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep
They’re great for stuffing into sub rolls, serving over spaghetti, or pairing with a crisp salad.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) 🥩
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped 🌿
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 large egg 🥚
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes 🧀
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Chopped spinach
- Minced garlic
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2️⃣ Stuff with Mozzarella
Scoop 1–2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm.
Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and fold the meat around it, sealing the edges.
Roll into a ball. Repeat until all meat mixture and cheese are used.
3️⃣ Sear the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs in batches—don’t overcrowd.
Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, turning gently until all sides are browned and cooked through.
4️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with marinara sauce, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan.
Great over pasta, in hoagie rolls, or as a standalone appetizer.
Tips for Success
- Use low-moisture mozzarella to prevent leaking while cooking.
- Don’t skip the resting period before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Want them baked? Place on a greased baking sheet at 400°F for 20–22 minutes, turning once.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These meatballs go perfectly with:
- 🍝 Classic Spaghetti with Homemade Sauce – the ultimate meatball match
- 🌯 Sheet Pan Quesadillas – a fun twist for party snacks
- 🍋 Blueberry Lemonade – cuts through the richness perfectly
- 🍪 Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – easy dessert after a hearty meal
- 🍮 No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie – creamy and chilled contrast
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet with marinara sauce or microwave in 30-second intervals
More Recipes You’ll Love
- 🍝 Classic Spaghetti with Homemade Sauce
- 🌯 Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- 🍋 Blueberry Lemonade
- 🍪 Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
- 🍮 No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie
Final Thoughts
These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella bring together hearty meat, vibrant greens, and gooey cheese for the kind of bite that’s equal parts comforting and crave-worthy. They’re easy to make, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Tried them? Tag @chefmaniac and show us your cheesy meatball magic! Follow for more comfort food classics, pasta-night upgrades, and satisfying family favorites.
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