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Spinach Garlic Meatballs with Mozzarella

Spinach Garlic Meatballs with Mozzarella
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Spinach Garlic Meatballs with Mozzarella combine juicy ground meat with fresh spinach and aromatic garlic, featuring a gooey mozzarella center. This quick, hearty recipe is easy to prepare in under 30 minutes and perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or party finger food, delivering vibrant flavor and a healthy twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, turkey, or chicken)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 12 small mozzarella cubes (about 1/2 inch each)
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Cooking

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Optional spices: red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, cayenne (to taste)
  • Optional herbs: rosemary, thyme, oregano (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the spinach and garlic: Wash fresh spinach thoroughly, then sauté in a pan with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Mince garlic finely and set aside.
  2. Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooled spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with hands or a spoon until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Form the meatballs with mozzarella centers: Take a small handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center, then fold the meat around it and roll into a smooth, tight ball. Repeat until all mixture is used.
  4. Brown and cook the meatballs: Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place meatballs evenly and brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for another 8-10 minutes until cooked through and juicy.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy: Serve meatballs straight from the pan, hot and oozing with melted mozzarella. Optionally, toss gently with marinara sauce or garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic and spinach for best flavor and texture.
  • Mix meat ingredients just until combined to keep meatballs tender and juicy.
  • Ensure mozzarella cubes are completely sealed inside the meat to prevent leakage during cooking.
  • Brown meatballs evenly by turning often over moderate heat to get a nice crust.
  • Let cooked meatballs rest a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free crumbs.
  • Meat alternatives like plant-based crumbles can be used for a vegetarian or vegan twist.
  • Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes as an alternative cooking method.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach meatballs, mozzarella stuffed meatballs, garlic meatballs, healthy meatballs, quick meatball recipe, gluten free meatballs, party appetizers, easy dinner

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/spinach-garlic-meatballs-with-mozzarella/