Why Make This Recipe
Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are not just delicious; they are packed with flavor and nutrients. Combining ground meat with fresh spinach and garlic makes for a healthy meal that everyone will love. Plus, the gooey mozzarella center adds a delightful surprise that will have your family coming back for seconds!
How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and salt until well combined.
- Take a small portion of the meat mixture, flatten it in your hand, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center.
- Shape the meat around the cheese into a ball and place it on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
These meatballs are great on their own or served with spaghetti and marinara sauce. You can also serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks or alongside a fresh salad. They are perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
How to Store Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Simply place the cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to three months.
Tips to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
- Make sure to chop the spinach finely to ensure it mixes well with the meat.
- You can add other herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for stuffing, like cheddar or provolone.
Variation
You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative. Additionally, you can use sautéed mushrooms instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the meat mixture.
Q: How do I know when the meatballs are done?
A: The meatballs should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to be fully cooked.
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for a day before baking, or freeze them before baking for later use.
