Spinach & Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs

Short Description

Spinach & Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are a delectable fusion of savory meats, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese. These meatballs combine ground beef and pork with fresh spinach and garlic, encasing a molten mozzarella center. Simmered in rich marinara sauce, they are perfect served over pasta, polenta, or enjoyed straight from the skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: The combination of beef, pork, spinach, garlic, and mozzarella creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over pasta, polenta, or as a standalone appetizer.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat when needed, making meal planning easier.

• Family Favorite: A dish that appeals to both adults and children alike.

• Impressive Presentation: The melted mozzarella center offers a delightful surprise in every bite.Foodyhealthylife

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 lb ground pork

• 8 oz fresh baby spinach

• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 ¼ cups bread crumbs

• 3–4 eggs (depending on size)

• Splash of milk

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

• 1 jar marinara sauceHugs and Cookies XOXO+6FULL RECIPE+6Foodyhealthylife+6Reddit+8Instagram+8Reddit+8Instagram+2Foodyhealthylife+2Recipeera+2Hugs and Cookies XOXO+4CookiesPedia+4Foodyhealthylife+4Facebook+10Reddit+10FULL RECIPE+10

Directions

1. Prepare the Spinach:

   • Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

   • Add the baby spinach and toss until wilted.

   • Add 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

   • Remove from heat, chop finely, and set aside to cool.FULL RECIPECookiesPedia+1Recipeera+1Foodyhealthylife+4Reddit+4Recipeera+4

2. Make the Meatball Mixture:

   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, eggs, splash of milk, 4 cloves of finely chopped garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and the cooled spinach mixture.

   • Mix until well combined.Foodyhealthylife+5Reddit+5CookiesPedia+5

3. Form and Stuff the Meatballs:

   • Take a portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm.

   • Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and wrap the meat around it, forming a ball.

   • Repeat with the remaining mixture.NorthEast Nosh Recipes

4. Cook the Meatballs:

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Add the meatballs and brown on all sides.

   • Add marinara sauce to the skillet, covering the bottom.

   • Cover with foil and transfer to the oven.

   • Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).RedditRecipeera

5. Serve:

   • Serve over pasta, polenta, or enjoy directly from the skillet.

   • Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.Recipeera+1Reddit+1

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 18–20 meatballs

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Meat Options: Substitute ground beef and pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

• Cheese Choices: Use different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for varied flavors.

• Herb Additions: Incorporate herbs like basil or oregano into the meat mixture for added aroma.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicier version.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring the center is hot.

FAQs

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, after cooking, allow the meatballs to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain the frozen spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture before using.

What type of mozzarella is best for stuffing?

Low-moisture mozzarella works well as it melts nicely without releasing too much liquid.

Can I bake the meatballs without browning them first?

Yes, but browning adds flavor and helps the meatballs hold their shape. If skipping this step, bake them slightly longer to ensure they are cooked through.

Spinach & Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 18–20 meatballs

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Description

These Spinach & Garlic Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs are a delightful fusion of juicy beef and pork, aromatic garlic, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfectly paired with rich marinara sauce, they’re an ideal choice for pasta, polenta, or enjoyed straight from the skillet.

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Ingredients

For the Spinach-Garlic Mixture:

• 8 oz fresh baby spinach

• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1-2 tablespoons olive oilFULL RECIPEFoodyhealthylife+7Reddit+7FULL RECIPE+7

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 lb ground pork

• 2 1/4 cups breadcrumbs

• 3 large eggs (or 4 if small)

• Splash of milk

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

• Mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

• 1 jar marinara sauce (e.g., Rao’s)

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Instructions

• Prepare the Spinach-Garlic Mixture:

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

  • Add spinach and cook until wilted.

  • Stir in garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

  • Remove from heat, chop finely, and let cool.Hugs and Cookies XOXOFoodyhealthylife+2Reddit+2Recipeera+2

• Make the Meatball Mixture:

  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, chopped garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and the cooled spinach-garlic mixture.

  • Mix until well combined.Reddit+3Facebook+3Recipeera+3

• Form and Stuff the Meatballs:

  • Take a portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand.

  • Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and wrap the meat around it, sealing completely.

  • Roll into a ball and repeat with the remaining mixture.NorthEast Nosh Recipes

• Cook the Meatballs:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Add meatballs and brown on all sides.

  • Once browned, add marinara sauce to the skillet, covering the bottom.

  • Cover with foil and transfer to the oven.

  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).Hugs and Cookies XOXO+2Reddit+2Recipeera+2Recipeera

• Serve:

  • Serve meatballs over pasta, polenta, or enjoy them on their own.

  • Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired

Notes

• For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for beef and pork.

• These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months.

• Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American