Description
Whip up spinach and garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella for a cozy crowdpleasing weeknight bite tender cheesy and utterly craveable
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken (450 g)
2 cups finely chopped spinach
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 small mozzarella cubes (about 1/2 inch each) or 4 oz shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 pinch fresh parsley
1 pinch red pepper flakes
1 cup marinara sauce (for simmering) + extra for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, spinach, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, olive oil, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Press a mozzarella cube into the center of each and seal the meatball around the cheese.
- Heat a large skillet with a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the marinara sauce to the skillet. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 8–12 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the mozzarella centers are melted.
- Alternatively, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). After browning, transfer meatballs to a baking sheet and bake for 18–22 minutes, finishing with a quick broil if desired.
- Season to taste and serve with extra sauce. Garnish with parsley or microgreens if desired.
Notes
Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are juicy, protein-packed bites with gooey centers, balanced with greens and pantry-friendly ingredients for a weeknight skillet dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: not specified
- Fat: 29 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g