Name: Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces fresh baby spinach; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-2 tablespoons good olive oil; 1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best); 1 pound ground pork; 2¼ cups soft bread crumbs; 3 large eggs (4 if using smaller eggs); A splash of milk (about 2 tablespoons); 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying; 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 32 small cubes; 1 jar (24 oz) Rao’s marinara sauce (or your favorite brand); Cooked pasta of your choice

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Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella are the kind of dish that brings comfort and flavor together in every bite. These tender meatballs are loaded with savory garlic, fresh spinach, and a surprise center of melty mozzarella. It’s the perfect combination of hearty and cheesy, ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something both quick and satisfying.

Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of these meatballs fills the air! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule, you know how precious time can be. This recipe is a delightful solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your family without spending hours cooking. Whether it’s a cozy meal at home or a crowd-pleaser at the dinner table, these stuffed meatballs are always a hit!

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Melty Mozzarella intro

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

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They’re quick to prepare, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. The combination of savory meat, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella creates a flavor explosion that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve with pasta, in a sub, or even on their own!

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:

Fresh baby spinach: This leafy green adds a pop of color and a nutritious boost.
Garlic: Minced and finely chopped, garlic infuses the meatballs with a rich, aromatic flavor.
Good olive oil: A drizzle of quality olive oil enhances the sautéing process and adds depth.
Ground beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
Ground pork: This adds moisture and a hint of sweetness to the meat mixture.
Soft bread crumbs: They help bind the meatballs while keeping them tender and fluffy.
Eggs: These act as a binding agent, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape.
A splash of milk: Just a bit of milk keeps the meatballs moist and flavorful.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated, it adds a savory, cheesy kick that complements the meat.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance all the flavors.
Olive oil for frying: A little more oil for browning the meatballs adds a delicious crust.
Mozzarella cheese: Cut into small cubes, this is the star of the show, providing that gooey, melty surprise.
Marinara sauce: A jar of your favorite sauce brings everything together, adding a rich, tangy flavor.
Cooked pasta: Serve these meatballs over your choice of pasta for a complete meal.

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Melty Mozzarella how to make

How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these delicious Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal that’s sure to impress!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. You want those meatballs to bake perfectly, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach and Garlic

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant—about 30 seconds. Then, toss in the fresh spinach. Cook until it wilts, which should take just a couple of minutes. The aroma will be heavenly, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent!

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, soft bread crumbs, eggs, milk, chopped garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The texture should be slightly sticky but manageable. This mixture is the foundation of your meatballs, so make sure it’s mixed thoroughly!

Step 4: Incorporate the Spinach Mixture

Once the spinach mixture has cooled, add it to the meat mixture. Use your hands to combine everything thoroughly. You want the spinach evenly distributed throughout the meat. This not only adds flavor but also a lovely green hue to your meatballs!

Step 5: Form the Meatballs

Now comes the fun part—shaping the meatballs! Take a handful of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center, then fold the meat around it, sealing it tightly. Roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up. You’ll have a delightful surprise of melted cheese in every bite!

Step 6: Brown the Meatballs

In a skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs, browning them on all sides. This step is essential for developing flavor. The golden crust adds a delicious depth to your meatballs, making them even more irresistible!

Step 7: Bake the Meatballs

Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish. Pour your favorite marinara sauce over them, ensuring they’re well covered. Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and the cheese is bubbling!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes. Serve them over cooked pasta, or enjoy them on their own. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. Your family will be thrilled to dig into this comforting dish!

Tips for Success

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—especially the spinach and garlic.
Don’t overmix the meat mixture; it can make the meatballs tough.
For even cooking, try to make all meatballs the same size.
Let the meatballs rest after baking to keep them juicy.
Experiment with different cheeses for stuffing, like provolone or fontina!

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl for combining ingredients; a pot can work in a pinch.
Skillet: For sautéing and browning; a non-stick pan makes cleanup easier.
Baking dish: Any oven-safe dish will do; a cast-iron skillet adds a rustic touch.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; use your hands for a more personal touch!
Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for mixing; a fork can also do the trick.

Variations of Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella

Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap out the beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Version: Use a mix of lentils and mushrooms instead of meat, and add extra cheese for flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture for a fiery twist.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the meat mixture for an aromatic boost.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Melty Mozzarella

Serving Suggestions for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella

Serve over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic Italian meal.
Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Offer garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

FAQs about Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella

Can I make these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bake them right before serving for that fresh, warm experience!

What can I substitute for ground beef and pork?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully in this recipe. You can also use a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They also freeze well, so feel free to make a double batch and save some for later!

Can I use a different type of cheese for stuffing?

Of course! While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can experiment with cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

What should I serve with these meatballs?

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella are fantastic over pasta, but you can also serve them in a sub sandwich, on a bed of zoodles, or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal!

Final Thoughts

Cooking these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of watching your family’s faces light up as they discover the gooey mozzarella hidden inside is priceless. This recipe brings comfort and warmth, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens! So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the delightful experience of cooking together. Trust me, your kitchen will be filled with love and laughter!

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