Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Looking for a flavorful and cheesy twist on classic meatballs? These spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella are sure to please your taste buds and impress your dinner guests!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 8 small mozzarella balls
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Take a small handful of meat mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a mozzarella ball in the center and wrap the meat around it, forming a meatball.
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve with marinara sauce and enjoy!
Popular questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Can I use frozen spinach?
- Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
- Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
- Can I freeze these meatballs?
- Can I use different cheese for stuffing?
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Can I add herbs to the meat mixture?
- Can I pan-fry these meatballs instead of baking?
- Can I make a vegetarian version of these meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.
Frozen spinach can be used, just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the meat mixture.
Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs in this recipe.
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before baking, then bake when ready to serve.
These meatballs can be frozen after baking, just make sure to thaw before reheating.
You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for stuffing the meatballs.
You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for a gluten-free version of these meatballs.
You can add herbs like parsley or basil to the meat mixture for added flavor.
These meatballs can also be pan-fried in a skillet until cooked through.
You can substitute the ground beef with a meatless meat alternative and use vegetarian-friendly cheese for a vegetarian version.
Helpful tips:
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve these meatballs over pasta or with a side of garlic bread.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- Experiment with different seasonings like Italian seasoning or onion powder.
- Make mini meatballs for appetizers at your next party.
- Double the recipe and freeze half for an easy meal prep option.
- Use fresh mozzarella instead of mozzarella balls for a gooier center.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to your marinara sauce for extra flavor.
- Top with fresh basil leaves before serving for a pop of color.
- Serve these meatballs as a sandwich on a toasted hoagie roll.
Expert Secrets:
- Cook the spinach before adding it to the meat mixture to remove excess moisture.
- Chill the meat mixture for 30 minutes before shaping the meatballs for easier handling.
- Make a double batch of these meatballs and use them for meatball subs later in the week.
- Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork for added flavor and juiciness.
- Make a homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet before baking for a crispy exterior.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion out the meat mixture for evenly sized meatballs.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the meat mixture for extra depth of flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like provolone or blue cheese for stuffing.
- Serve these meatballs in a hot pot for a fun and interactive meal.