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Delicious Spinach Garlic Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs on a plate with marinara sauce.

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella


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  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings (approx. 18-20 meatballs) 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

Juicy meatballs infused with fresh spinach and garlic, hiding a delightful surprise of molten mozzarella cheese inside.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1/2 lb ground pork (or additional ground beef)
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped and squeezed dry
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or plain)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 oz low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying, optional)
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce, warmed (for serving)


Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined; do not overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
Step 2: Take about 1.5-2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it into a disk in your palm. Place one mozzarella cube in the center. Carefully mold the meat around the cheese, ensuring it is completely sealed within the meatball. Roll gently to form a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese.
Step 3: (Optional, for pan-frying): Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. Transfer to a baking sheet.
Step 4: (For baking): Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange meatballs (either browned or raw) on a baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The cheese should be melted and gooey.
Step 6: Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce and your favorite pasta, or in a sub roll.

Notes

For easy meal prep, raw meatballs can be frozen on a baking sheet until solid, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to baking time.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking, Pan-frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 meatballs
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
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