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Spinach Garlic Mozzarella Meatballs

These meatballs combine juicy ground beef, fresh spinach, garlic, and melty mozzarella for a cozy, flavorful comfort food perfect for quick dinners or party appetizers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Spinach Garlic Mozzarella Meatballs
  • 450 g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • 1 cup fresh spinach finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 60 ml breadcrumbs
  • 25 g Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 tsp fine salt
  • 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning blend
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese cut into small cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Large Skillet
  • Baking Sheet (Optional)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix just until combined to keep meatballs tender.
  2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into meatballs by flattening 1-2 tablespoons in your palm, placing a mozzarella cube in the center, then wrapping the meat around the cheese and rolling into a smooth ball. Repeat with remaining mixture.
  3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches without crowding the pan. Cook 4-5 minutes per side, gently turning to brown evenly and cook through.
  4. Step 4 (Optional): For less oil, bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  5. Step 5: Serve meatballs on their own, with marinara sauce, or over your favorite pasta. Enjoy warm and gooey!

Notes

Leftover meatballs store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to keep them juicy. Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or swap mozzarella cubes with pepper jack or provolone for different flavors.