Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a tasty and comforting dish. They bring together the goodness of spinach, the savory flavor of garlic, and the deliciousness of melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for any meal, these meatballs are easy to make and loved by both kids and adults!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella is a great choice for several reasons. First, they are simple to prepare and require just a few ingredients. Second, they are a perfect way to sneak in some greens, thanks to the spinach. Finally, who can resist the gooey, melted cheese inside? These meatballs are sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
- Take a small scoop of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball.
- Repeat this process with the remaining meat mixture to make more meatballs.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs for 2–3 minutes, cooking until they are browned on all sides.
- Transfer the browned meatballs to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and the cheese inside has melted.
- Serve the meatballs hot with marinara sauce. You can garnish them with fresh basil or parsley if you like.
How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
These meatballs are best served hot with a side of marinara sauce. You can pair them with pasta, serve them in a sub sandwich, or enjoy them on their own as an appetizer. They are also great for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week!
How to Store Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
To store your meatballs, let them cool completely after cooking. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
- For even more flavor, try adding herbs like basil or parsley to the meat mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make sure to seal the meat around the cheese well, so it doesn’t leak while cooking.
- If using ground chicken, ensure not to overcook to keep the meat moist.
Variation
You can easily change the recipe based on your preferences. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a mixture of black beans and lentils. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for varied flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the mixture.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs, form them into balls, and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to cook.
What should I serve these meatballs with?
These meatballs go well with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, alongside garlic bread, or even as part of a salad. Enjoy them however you like!
