Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella

Here’s a delicious recipe for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella. These meatballs are flavorful, juicy, and perfect for any meal.

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• For the Stuffing:
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• For Cooking:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until well combined.
2. Stuff the Meatballs:
   • Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm.
   • Place a cube of mozzarella in the center of the flattened meat.
   • Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
   • Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese cubes.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the meatballs to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
   • Cook the meatballs for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are browned all over.
   • Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Simmer in Marinara Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a simmer.
   • Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
   • Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 20 minutes, until they are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the meatballs hot, over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Cheese Variation: Try stuffing the meatballs with other types of cheese like cheddar or provolone for a different flavor.

Enjoy your Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella!