Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Name: Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Posted on January 24, 2026

DINNER

Difficulty

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Introduction to Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Welcome to a culinary adventure that’s sure to become a family favorite! These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are not just delicious; they’re a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals like us. Picture this: a hectic day winding down, and you want to whip up something quick yet impressive. These meatballs are your answer! With their gooey mozzarella center and vibrant spinach, they’re a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, you’ll love how easy they are to make and how they bring smiles to the dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a game-changer for your weeknight dinners! They come together in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for busy schedules. The combination of savory garlic, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella creates a flavor explosion that will impress your family and friends. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a delightful appetizer. You’ll find yourself making these again and again!

Ingredients for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: The star of the show! It provides a rich, hearty base for the meatballs.
Fresh spinach: Packed with nutrients, it adds a pop of color and a subtle earthiness.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant punch that elevates the flavor profile.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the mixture together, giving the meatballs a lovely texture.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape while baking.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshness that brightens up the dish.
Mozzarella cheese: The gooey surprise inside! It melts beautifully, creating a delicious center.

For those looking to spice things up, consider adding red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a kick. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella cook evenly. A hot oven helps the meatballs develop a lovely golden crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Trust me, you’ll want that perfect balance!

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and parsley. Use your hands to mix everything together thoroughly. This step is essential! You want all those flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t be shy—get in there and mix until it’s well combined. The texture should be slightly sticky but manageable. This mixture is the heart of your meatballs, so make sure it’s just right!

Form the Meatballs

Now comes the fun part—shaping the meatballs! Take a small amount of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then wrap the meat around it, forming a ball. Make sure the cheese is completely enclosed; we don’t want any melty surprises leaking out! Repeat this process until you’ve used up all the mixture. Each meatball should be about the size of a golf ball, ensuring they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Bake the Meatballs

Place your beautifully formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and cooked through. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). This ensures they’re safe to eat and perfectly juicy. Once they’re out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Tips for Success

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—especially the spinach and garlic.
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; it can make them tough.
For even cooking, make sure all meatballs are roughly the same size.
Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in moisture.
Experiment with herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
Baking sheet: A flat tray for baking. If you don’t have one, a casserole dish will do.
Parchment paper: For easy cleanup. Aluminum foil is a good alternative.
Meat thermometer: To check doneness. If you don’t have one, just cut a meatball in half to check.

Variations

Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or chickpeas instead of meat, and add extra veggies for a hearty, plant-based meal.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to the mixture for an aromatic boost.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture for some heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella with a side of spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal.
Serve with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a light, refreshing contrast.
For drinks, a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with extra parsley or grated Parmesan for a lovely presentation.

FAQs about Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella mixture a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, shape the meatballs and pop them in the oven. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs are incredibly versatile! You can serve them with spaghetti and marinara sauce, on a sub roll for a meatball sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad. They also make a great appetizer with toothpicks for dipping!

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

What if I don’t have fresh spinach?

No worries! You can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the meat mixture. This way, you won’t end up with excess moisture in your stuffed meatballs.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have one, cut a meatball in half; it should be cooked through and no longer pink inside. Enjoy your perfectly cooked meatballs!

Final Thoughts

Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments of joy around the dinner table. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible. Each bite offers a warm, cheesy surprise that brings smiles to faces, young and old alike. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, these meatballs are sure to impress. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do, and may it become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!