Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Published: August 16, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with Flavor: The combination of sautéed spinach and garlic elevates these meatballs to a new level.
Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up these meatballs in no time.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them over pasta, as appetizers, or inside sandwiches for a fun twist.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy surprise inside each meatball!
Make Ahead: These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and frozen for later use.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, you will need some essential tools. Gathering everything before starting will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Skillet
Baking sheet (if baking)
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: This allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
Skillet: Ideal for searing the meatballs to achieve that golden-brown crust before finishing them off.
Baking sheet: Great for those who choose to bake their meatballs; it ensures even cooking.

Ingredients

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are juicy, flavorful meatballs packed with sautéed spinach and garlic, then stuffed with gooey, melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for serving over pasta, as appetizers, or tucked into sandwiches — they’re sure to impress with every bite.

For the Meatballs

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20)
2 cups fresh spinach (about 4 oz), sautéed and chopped (or 1/2 cup well-drained frozen spinach)
8 oz low-moisture mozzarella, cut into small cubes
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
1 large egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2–3 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

In a skillet with olive oil, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Cool slightly before squeezing out any moisture and chopping finely.

Step 2: Mix the Meat

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, egg, and the chopped spinach. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 3: Form and Stuff

Flatten a portion of the meat mixture in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and seal the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until they are golden brown.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

You have two options to finish cooking:
1. Cover the skillet and cook on low for an additional 5–7 minutes.
2. Transfer the meatballs to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes.

Enjoy your homemade Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella!

How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delicious ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a light snack, there’s a perfect option for everyone.

Over Pasta

Serve the meatballs on a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine, drizzled with marinara sauce for a classic Italian dish.

In a Sub Sandwich

Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll with marinara sauce and melted cheese for a satisfying sandwich that’s great for lunch or dinner.

As Appetizers

Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve them alongside dipping sauces like marinara or garlic aioli for an impressive appetizer at parties.

On Pizza

Add the cooked meatballs as a topping on your favorite pizza along with fresh vegetables and extra cheese for a unique twist.

With Salad

Pair the meatballs with a fresh garden salad, allowing the flavors of spinach and garlic to complement the crisp greens.

How to Perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

To achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful meatballs, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality mozzarella make all the difference in flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Combine the ingredients gently to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Chill Before Cooking: Letting the formed meatballs chill in the fridge for 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before forming the meatballs; adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference.
Experiment with Herbs: Add other herbs like oregano or basil to enhance flavor complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella can elevate your meal. Here are some great suggestions:

Garlic Bread
Perfectly toasted slices of garlic bread complement the flavors while adding crunch.
Roasted Vegetables
A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrients to your plate.
Caesar Salad
This classic salad provides crispness and creaminess, balancing out the hearty meatballs.
Polenta
Creamy polenta serves as a rich base that soaks up any delicious sauce from the meatballs.
Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed broccoli adds freshness and is an excellent source of vitamins.
Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs offers a simple yet tasty accompaniment to your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella is no exception. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Using too much moisture: If spinach isn’t well-drained, it can make your meatballs soggy. Make sure to squeeze out excess water after sautéing.
Overmixing the meat: Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough meatballs. Combine ingredients gently until just mixed for a tender texture.
Skipping the searing step: Searing adds flavor and a nice crust. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of the meatballs.
Not adjusting seasoning: Different brands of breadcrumbs and cheeses vary in saltiness. Always taste your mixture before rolling into meatballs to ensure it’s seasoned well.
Ignoring cooking times: Every oven or stovetop heats differently. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal doneness, aiming for 160°F (70°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow meatballs to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Add a splash of water or sauce in a skillet, cover, and heat on low until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella so special?

These meatballs are packed with flavor from sautéed garlic and spinach, creating a deliciously unique twist on classic meatballs.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute mozzarella with other melty cheeses like cheddar or provolone for different flavors.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.

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

Absolutely! Prepare them in advance and store in the fridge or freeze for later use. Just reheat when ready to enjoy.

What dishes pair well with these meatballs?

These flavorful meatballs go great over pasta, in sandwiches, or served as appetizers with dipping sauces.

Final Thoughts

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for various occasions, you can serve them over pasta or as snacks at parties. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite spices or vegetables!

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