When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the mark like a flavorful, tender meatball. Add a gooey, melted mozzarella center, and you’ve got a dish that’s bound to become a family favorite. Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are an ideal meal that combines the richness of ground chicken or turkey with the savory notes of garlic and Italian seasoning, while the melted mozzarella provides an irresistible surprise in every bite.
Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family, meal prepping for the week, or making an appetizer for a party, these spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella are sure to satisfy. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making these delicious meatballs, including tips for success, serving suggestions, and variations to make this dish your own.
Ingredients for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Here are the simple yet flavorful ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:
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1 lb ground chicken or turkey – Ground chicken or turkey is a leaner option compared to beef, making these meatballs both healthier and lighter without sacrificing flavor.
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1 cup chopped spinach – Fresh spinach works best, but if you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
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1/3 cup breadcrumbs – These will help bind the meatballs together, giving them the perfect texture.
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1 egg – The egg helps to hold the mixture together and adds moisture to the meatballs.
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2 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic brings a bold, aromatic flavor to the meatballs.
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1/2 tsp Italian seasoning – This classic blend of herbs (like basil, oregano, and thyme) gives the meatballs that quintessential Italian flavor.
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4 oz mozzarella, cubed – Mozzarella is the star of the show here, creating that delicious, melty center in each meatball.
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Salt and pepper to taste – Always remember to season your meatballs to taste, ensuring they have the perfect balance of flavor.
Dietary Substitutions
While this recipe is already pretty versatile, you can make a few adjustments based on dietary preferences:
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Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or swap them for almond meal or crushed rice crackers.
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Dairy-free: Substitute the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative or skip the cheese for a different flavor profile.
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Low-carb: For a low-carb version, replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or coconut flour, which helps keep the meatballs tender and moist without the carbs.
How to Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella is easy and fun. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your meatballs turn out perfect every time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help the meatballs cook quickly and develop a nice golden brown crust on the outside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the meatballs from sticking during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken or turkey, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly combine the ingredients. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape when formed into meatballs. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs; if it’s too dry, a splash of milk or water will help.
Step 3: Form and Stuff the Meatballs
Scoop out portions of the meat mixture, about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons per meatball, and flatten them slightly in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center of each flattened portion. Then, carefully roll the meatball around the cheese, making sure to seal the edges well so the cheese stays inside. This is key to ensuring that the mozzarella doesn’t leak out during baking.
Arrange the stuffed meatballs on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced apart to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden on the outside. If you’re using ground chicken, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This will allow the mozzarella inside to set slightly, so it doesn’t spill out when you bite into it. Serve them hot with marinara sauce, over a bed of pasta, or as a party appetizer.
Tips for Perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs
Making meatballs might seem simple, but there are a few key tips to help elevate the flavor and texture of your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella:
1. Use Fresh Spinach
Fresh spinach has a much better texture and flavor than frozen spinach, which can sometimes be soggy. If you do use frozen spinach, be sure to drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from affecting the meatball mixture.
2. Season Well
Seasoning is essential to bringing out the flavors in the meatballs. Don’t be afraid to taste the mixture before forming the meatballs. If it needs more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning, add it! It’s always easier to add seasoning during mixing than to try and fix under-seasoned meatballs after they’re cooked.
3. Ensure Even Cooking
To ensure even cooking, try to make your meatballs all the same size. This helps them cook uniformly and ensures each one has that perfect golden brown exterior.
4. Don’t Overmix
Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and no more. This will keep the texture tender and light.
5. Let the Meatballs Rest
After baking, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the cheese set and prevent it from spilling out when you cut into them.
Serving Suggestions
With Marinara Sauce
One of the classic ways to serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella is alongside a rich, tangy marinara sauce. Spoon the sauce over the meatballs, or dip each meatball into the sauce for a flavorful bite.
Over Pasta
For a more filling meal, serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta. The melted mozzarella inside pairs wonderfully with the pasta and sauce.
As a Party Appetizer
If you’re hosting a party or gathering, these meatballs make a fantastic appetizer. Serve them on a platter with toothpicks or skewers for easy snacking. You can also drizzle some extra marinara sauce or a balsamic glaze on top for added flavor.
In a Sandwich
These meatballs also work well in a sub sandwich or hoagie roll. Add some marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella for a tasty meatball sub that’s sure to please everyone.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you love Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, here are some more recipes you might enjoy:
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Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites – Tender steak bites coated in a delicious garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer.
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BBQ Bacon Chicken Bite Explosion – Bite-sized chicken pieces wrapped in crispy bacon and smothered in BBQ sauce. A crowd favorite!
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Baked Pork Tenderloin – A juicy and flavorful baked pork tenderloin that pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella contains approximately:
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Calories: 250-300 per serving (depending on the size of the meatballs)
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Protein: 20-25g
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Fat: 12-15g
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Carbohydrates: 10-15g
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Fiber: 2-3g
These meatballs are a great source of lean protein from the ground chicken or turkey, along with the added benefits of spinach, which provides iron, vitamins A and C, and fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
1. Can I use ground beef instead of chicken or turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey with ground beef if you prefer. However, keep in mind that ground beef is higher in fat, which may affect the texture of the meatballs. If you choose to use ground beef, you may want to drain any excess fat after cooking to ensure your meatballs aren’t greasy.
2. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach for these meatballs?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove any excess moisture. This will prevent the meatball mixture from becoming too wet, which can affect the texture of your meatballs.
3. How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella gluten-free, simply swap out the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative such as gluten-free breadcrumbs, almond meal, or crushed rice crackers. These alternatives will help maintain the right texture while keeping the recipe gluten-free.
4. Can I make these meatballs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance! You can form the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Final Thoughts
Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a versatile and delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, as an appetizer, or over pasta, these meatballs deliver a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. The gooey mozzarella center adds a delightful surprise, while the spinach and garlic provide a fresh, savory base. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, these meatballs are perfect for any occasion.
So, next time you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, give these stuffed meatballs a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 18 meatballs 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are juicy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Made with ground chicken or turkey, fresh spinach, and garlic, these meatballs are a perfect meal or appetizer. The mozzarella center adds a melty surprise that takes these meatballs to the next level!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground chicken or turkey
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1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or thawed)
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1/3 cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
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4 oz mozzarella, cubed
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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Mix Meatball Base: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken or turkey, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Form & Stuff: Scoop out portions of the meat mixture and flatten slightly. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and roll the mixture into a ball, sealing the cheese inside.
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Bake: Arrange the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden.
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Serve: Serve the meatballs hot with marinara sauce, pasta, or as an appetizer. Enjoy the melty mozzarella center!
Notes
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You can use ground beef or pork as an alternative to chicken or turkey.
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For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
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Make sure to chill the meatballs for a few minutes if they seem too soft before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs, Chicken Meatballs, Spinach Meatballs, Easy Meatball Recipe, Healthy Meatballs, Italian Meatballs, Cheesy Meatballs