When it comes to comfort food that’s both hearty and wholesome, Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella tick all the boxes. These juicy, flavorful meatballs are packed with fresh spinach and roasted garlic, and surprise you with gooey, melted mozzarella in every bite. Topped with rich marinara sauce and garnished with fresh basil, this dish is a perfect family dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
If you love classic Italian flavors but want to sneak in some veggies and ooey-gooey cheese, this recipe is definitely for you. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve when entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes these meatballs special is the delightful mozzarella core that melts perfectly inside the beef and spinach mixture. The spinach adds a subtle earthiness and nutritional boost, while the garlic infuses every bite with bold flavor. Baking the meatballs in marinara sauce ensures they stay moist and absorb delicious tomato goodness.
This recipe is also versatile — you can make it with pure beef or a beef/pork blend for extra juiciness. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and cook in about 40 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or beef/pork mix)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into ½ inch cubes
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan
- Spoon or small ice cream scoop
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready once your meatballs are browned and sauced.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly until fully combined.
3. Stuff the Meatballs
Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture, flatten it gently in your palm, then place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center. Carefully wrap the meat around the cheese and roll it into a smooth ball, making sure the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat until all the meat is used.
4. Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned (about 5-6 minutes). This step locks in flavor and gives a lovely crust.
5. Add Marinara and Bake
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the mozzarella inside is melted.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the meatballs before serving for a burst of color and herbal aroma.
Helpful Tips and Variations
- Meat Options: Mix ground pork with beef for extra tenderness and flavor. Turkey or chicken can also be substituted, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Spinach Prep: Use fresh spinach finely chopped. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing.
- Cheese Choices: For a twist, try stuffing with provolone, fontina, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: Use panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite homemade or store-bought marinara. For more flavor, simmer with extra garlic and herbs.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate before cooking, or freeze them raw and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatballs store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. They also freeze well — freeze cooked meatballs in sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What to Pair with These Meatballs
- Creamy garlic mashed potatoes or polenta
- Spaghetti or any pasta tossed lightly in olive oil or marinara
- Roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- A glass of medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the flavors beautifully
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How can I tell if the meatballs are fully cooked?
A: They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The cheese should be melted and meat no longer pink inside.
Q: Can I bake the meatballs without browning them first?
A: Yes, but browning adds flavor and texture, so it’s recommended if time allows.
Q: Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
A: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Q: How do I prevent cheese from leaking out?
A: Make sure the meat fully encloses the cheese with no gaps. Press the seams well when shaping the balls.
Final Thoughts
These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella bring a fresh twist to a classic favorite. They’re packed with savory flavor, melty cheese, and nutritious spinach, all wrapped in juicy ground beef and baked to perfection in marinara sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests.
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Ready to savor that cheesy, garlicky goodness? Let’s get cooking!