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.
Ingredients
For the Spinach-Garlic Mixture:
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8 oz fresh baby spinach
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3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
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1-2 tablespoons olive oilFULL RECIPEFoodyhealthylife+7Reddit+7FULL RECIPE+7
For the Meatballs:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 lb ground pork
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2 1/4 cups breadcrumbs
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3 large eggs (or 4 if small)
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Splash of milk
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4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
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Mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
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1 jar marinara sauce (e.g., Rao’s)
Instructions
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Prepare the Spinach-Garlic Mixture:
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add spinach and cook until wilted.
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Stir in garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Remove from heat, chop finely, and let cool.Hugs and Cookies XOXOFoodyhealthylife+2Reddit+2Recipeera+2
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Make the Meatball Mixture:
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, chopped garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and the cooled spinach-garlic mixture.
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Mix until well combined.Reddit+3Facebook+3Recipeera+3
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Form and Stuff the Meatballs:
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Take a portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand.
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Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and wrap the meat around it, sealing completely.
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Roll into a ball and repeat with the remaining mixture.NorthEast Nosh Recipes
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Cook the Meatballs:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add meatballs and brown on all sides.
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Once browned, add marinara sauce to the skillet, covering the bottom.
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Cover with foil and transfer to the oven.
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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
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Serve:
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Serve meatballs over pasta, polenta, or enjoy them on their own.
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Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired
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Notes
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For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for beef and pork.
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These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months.
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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