Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

October 8, 2025

Updated:

October 8, 2025

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These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to impress at any gathering. Packed with nutritious spinach and aromatic garlic, these meatballs are not only juicy but also filled with gooey mozzarella cheese. Whether served over pasta, as finger food for parties, or nestled in a sandwich, they are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Their standout quality lies in the perfect combination of savory beef and melty cheese, making each bite a delicious experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-packed: The combination of sautéed spinach and garlic makes these meatballs incredibly flavorful.
Easy to prepare: With simple steps, anyone can whip up these meatballs quickly.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy them with pasta, on a sub, or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Nutritious ingredients: Packed with spinach, these meatballs offer added health benefits without sacrificing taste.
Impressive presentation: Stuffing the meatballs with mozzarella creates an eye-catching surprise when served.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Skillet
Baking sheet
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
Skillet: Ideal for searing the meatballs to achieve that golden-brown crust.
Baking sheet: Useful for transferring meatballs if you choose to bake them in the oven.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, gather the following ingredients:

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 over medium heat with olive oil, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Allow it to cool slightly before squeezing out excess moisture and chopping finely.

Step 2: Mix the Meat

In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, egg, and the prepared spinach. Mix until just combined to avoid toughening the meat.

Step 3: Form and Stuff

Take a portion of the mixture in your palm and flatten it out. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and carefully seal the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat this process until all mixture is used.

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear each meatball in batches for about 2–3 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown crust.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

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

Enjoy your delicious 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 various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these meatballs will surely impress.

Over Pasta

Serve the meatballs on a bed of spaghetti or penne tossed in marinara sauce for a classic Italian dish.

In a Sandwich

Place the meatballs in a crusty sub roll, top with marinara, and sprinkle with extra mozzarella for a delicious meatball sandwich.

As Appetizers

Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve them with dipping sauces like marinara or garlic aioli for bite-sized treats at parties.

With Salad

Pair the meatballs with a fresh garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese and beef.

On Pizza

Slice the meatballs and add them as toppings on homemade or store-bought pizza along with your favorite vegetables.

In Soup

Drop the cooked meatballs into vegetable or tomato soup for added protein and flavor, creating a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Creating perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella is easy with a few tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your cooking experience.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and garlic will elevate the flavor of your meatballs compared to dried alternatives.
Don’t overmix: Gently combine your ingredients to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
Chill before cooking: Letting the formed meatballs rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
Sear well: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding meatballs. Proper searing creates a nice crust and locks in moisture.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before forming the meatballs. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an extra layer of taste.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella can enhance your meal’s overall taste. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread makes a perfect accompaniment, ideal for soaking up any sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil bring color and nutrients to your plate while complementing the flavors of the meatballs.
Cauliflower Rice: A light and healthy alternative to traditional rice that can absorb flavors well without overpowering the dish.
Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini provides a low-carb option that pairs beautifully with marinara sauce and meatballs.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
Risotto: Creamy risotto flavored with herbs or parmesan offers a comforting side that enhances the meal’s heartiness.
Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as a smooth base that complements the rich flavors of spinach garlic meatballs nicely.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli contributes both nutrition and vibrant color, making it an excellent side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Not Sautéing the Spinach Properly: Failing to properly sauté the spinach can lead to excess moisture in your meatballs. Always cook it until wilted and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
Overmixing the Meat Mixture: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine the ingredients gently until just mixed to keep them tender.
Using Fresh Mozzarella: While tempting, fresh mozzarella can be too watery and affect the texture. Stick with low-moisture mozzarella for best results.
Skipping the Searing Step: Some might skip searing to save time, but this step adds crucial flavor and texture. Make sure to brown them well before finishing cooking.
Not Checking for Doneness: It’s vital to ensure that meatballs are fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer; they should reach at least 160°F (71°C).
Ignoring Seasonings: Under-seasoning can lead to bland meatballs. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs for a burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Cool completely before freezing.
Place in freezer-safe bags or containers 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 halfway.
Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work well in this recipe while keeping it leaner.

How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular ones, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free option.

What can I serve with Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even as sliders on buns.

Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix and form the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

Using a meat thermometer is best; they should reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).

Final Thoughts

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for any occasion, whether served over pasta or as appetizers. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices for extra flair!