Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

October 9, 2025

Updated:

October 9, 2025

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These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a delightful combination of juicy meatballs filled with melted mozzarella cheese, flavorful sautéed spinach, and aromatic garlic. Perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to parties, these meatballs will impress your guests with every bite. Their versatility allows them to be served over pasta, as appetizers, or even in sandwiches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of spinach and garlic creates a savory taste that pairs perfectly with the cheesy center.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these meatballs without any hassle.
Versatile Dish: Serve them over pasta, as finger foods, or in a hearty sandwich — the options are endless!
Healthy Twist: Packed with spinach, these meatballs add a nutritious element to your meal while keeping it tasty.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a party appetizer, these meatballs are sure to satisfy everyone.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Skillet
Cooking spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients without spills.
Skillet: Perfect for searing the meatballs to achieve that golden-brown crust.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping ingredients like garlic and spinach efficiently.

Ingredients

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella require fresh ingredients to ensure maximum flavor and texture.

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)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
* Cool slightly before squeezing out moisture and chopping finely.

Step 2: Mix the Meat

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

Step 3: Form and Stuff

With your hands:
* Flatten a portion of the meat mixture in your palm.
* Place a cube of mozzarella in the center.
* Seal the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

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

Step 5: Finish Cooking

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

Now you have delicious Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella ready to serve! Enjoy them warm over pasta or as tasty appetizers.

How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. From pasta dishes to sandwiches, you have plenty of options to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy family meal.

Over Pasta

Serve the meatballs over spaghetti or penne with marinara sauce for a comforting Italian classic.

In a Sub Sandwich

Place the meatballs in a crusty sub roll, top with marinara and cheese, then bake until melted for a hearty sandwich.

As Appetizers

Skewer the meatballs on toothpicks and serve with a side of dipping sauce for easy appetizers at parties.

With Salad

Pair the meatballs with a fresh green salad, adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a healthy balance.

On Pizza

Slice the meatballs and add them as toppings on your favorite pizza along with extra cheese and veggies.

In Soup

Chop the meatballs into bite-sized pieces and add them to vegetable or tomato soup for added flavor and protein.

How to Perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

To ensure your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality mozzarella will enhance flavor and texture.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to keep the meatballs tender; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerate formed meatballs for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before forming the meatballs. Adjust salt and spices according to preference.
Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing; this ensures even cooking and browning.
Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like provolone or gouda for varied flavors inside your meatballs.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Complement your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella with some delicious side dishes that enhance the meal. Here are some great suggestions:

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any sauce from the meatballs.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrients to your plate.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the savory flavors of the meatballs.
Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf provides a light base that complements the richness of the meatballs.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort alongside these hearty meatballs.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and herbs.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory meatball dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. By being aware of these mistakes, you can ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly every time.

Using too much moisture: If the spinach is not well-drained, it can make the meat mixture soggy. Always squeeze out excess moisture from the sautéed spinach before mixing.
Overmixing the meat: Mixing too vigorously can result in tough meatballs. Combine the ingredients gently until just incorporated for a tender bite.
Not seasoning enough: Underseasoning can lead to bland meatballs. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning in your mixture before cooking.
Improperly sealing the mozzarella: If you don’t completely seal the mozzarella inside, it may ooze out during cooking. Ensure that each meatball is tightly formed around the cheese.
Skipping browning: Searing the meatballs adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days in the fridge.
Allow them to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals, checking frequently until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce, cover, and cook until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef. Just be aware that turkey tends to be leaner, so consider adding extra moisture or fat to keep them juicy.

How can I customize my Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

You can add different herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor. Additionally, try using different cheeses or even adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes for variety.

What sauce pairs well with Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

A classic marinara sauce works wonderfully. You could also use pesto or Alfredo sauce based on your preference.

Are these meatballs good for meal prep?

Absolutely! These meatballs are perfect for meal prep due to their versatility and ease of storage. You can enjoy them throughout the week in various dishes.

Final Thoughts

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether served over pasta, as appetizers, or in sandwiches, they are sure to impress everyone at your table. Feel free to customize them by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors—your options are limitless! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!