Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella: A Flavorful Feast

Meatballs are a classic comfort food, but when you add spinach, garlic, and a gooey mozzarella center, they transform into a gourmet delight. This recipe for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella is perfect for a cozy family dinner, a party appetizer, or even meal prep for the week. The combination of savory meat, earthy spinach, aromatic garlic, and melty cheese is irresistible. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making these delicious meatballs, complete with cooking times and temperatures. Let’s get started!

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 oz (115g) mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup water (to thin the sauce, if needed)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Stuff the Meatballs with Mozzarella

1. Take a small handful of the meat mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm.
2. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then gently fold the meat around the cheese, rolling it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is completely enclosed to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
3. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes. You should end up with about 16-18 meatballs.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

1. Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

1. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. If the sauce is too thick, add 1/4 cup of water to thin it out.
2. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

1. Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce.
2. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce to coat them evenly. Let them simmer together for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
2. These meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. They also make a fantastic appetizer when served with toothpicks.

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Tips for Success

• Cheese Choices: If you don’t have mozzarella, you can use other melty cheeses like provolone or fontina.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
• Freezing: These meatballs freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 4 Meatballs)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

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Variations

1. Turkey Meatballs: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
2. Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute and vegan cheese.
3. Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes! Thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly, then squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the meat mixture.

Q: Can I cook these meatballs in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! After baking, transfer the meatballs and sauce to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

Q: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
A: Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed in the meat mixture, and avoid overhandling the meatballs.

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Conclusion

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a crowd-pleaser that combine wholesome ingredients with bold flavors. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or an appetizer, they’re sure to impress. The melty cheese center adds a delightful surprise, while the spinach and garlic keep the dish fresh and aromatic. Plus, with easy-to-follow instructions and customizable options, this recipe is a keeper for any home cook.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat