Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella 🧀🌿🍖
Juicy, garlicky meatballs packed with spinach and oozing melted mozzarella—perfect for pasta, subs, or appetizers!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (or ½ beef + ½ pork for extra richness)
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1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 large egg
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
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4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
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2 tbsp olive oil (for frying/baking)
Optional:
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Marinara sauce for serving
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Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Prep the Spinach
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Wilt spinach in a pan with a splash of water, then squeeze out excess moisture (key to prevent soggy meatballs!). Chop finely.
2. Make the Meatball Mix
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In a bowl, combine:
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Ground meat, spinach, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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Mix gently with hands (don’t overwork, or meatballs get tough).
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3. Stuff with Mozzarella
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Take a golf-ball-sized portion of meat, flatten slightly, and press a mozzarella cube into the center.
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Seal the meat around the cheese, rolling into smooth balls.
4. Cook (2 Ways!)
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Pan-Fry (Crispy Exterior):
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium.
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Brown meatballs on all sides (~2 mins per side), then finish cooking through (8-10 mins total).
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Bake (Healthier):
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place meatballs on a parchment-lined tray, drizzle with oil.
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Bake 18-20 mins until internal temp hits 160°F (71°C).
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5. Serve & Enjoy!
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For pasta: Simmer in marinara sauce 5 mins to melt cheese further.
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As appetizers: Skewer with toothpicks, serve with warm marinara dip.
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In subs: Nestle into toasted bread with melted provolone.
Pro Tips
🔹 No cheese leak-out: Ensure meatballs are fully sealed around the mozzarella.
🔹 Meat swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
🔹 Meal prep: Freeze uncooked meatballs for quick future meals!
Why You’ll Love These:
✅ Crispy outside, melty inside—the ultimate texture combo.
✅ Hidden veggies (spinach!) for a sneaky nutrient boost.
✅ Versatile—gluten-free or keto-friendly with simple swaps.
Ready to impress? These are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! 😍
*Want an air-fryer version? Just cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 mins!*
