These meatballs combine savory garlic and spinach with a gooey mozzarella center. Serve them with marinara sauce over pasta, zoodles, or as a standalone appetizer!
Author:Stephanie
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 (about 12 meatballs) 1x
Category:Main Dish, Appetizer
Cuisine:Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
1 large egg
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
12 small mozzarella cubes (about 1/2-inch pieces)
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
2 cups marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped spinach, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
Stuff with Mozzarella:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a mozzarella cube in the center, then fold the meat around it, sealing the edges to completely enclose the cheese. Roll into a smooth ball.
Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and mozzarella cubes. You should get about 12 meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned all over.
Lower the heat and cover the skillet. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Serve:
If using marinara sauce, pour it into the skillet with the meatballs and simmer for 5 minutes to coat the meatballs and heat the sauce.
Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Mozzarella Options: Use low-moisture mozzarella to avoid excess liquid. Baby mozzarella balls (bocconcini) also work well.
Baking Option: Bake the meatballs in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Make Ahead: Form the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for later use.