![- 1 pound ground beef or turkey - 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 salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes - 2 cups marinara sauce (for serving) - Fresh basil leaves (for garnish) The heart of these Spinach Garlic Meatballs lies in the ingredients. You want to start with fresh, high-quality products. Ground beef or turkey serves as the base. Both add great flavor and texture. I prefer turkey for a lighter option, but beef adds a rich taste. Spinach brings a burst of color and nutrients. Make sure to chop it finely. This helps it mix well without dominating the meatball. Garlic adds a strong, savory flavor. Use fresh cloves for the best taste. Breadcrumbs are crucial for binding. They help keep the meatballs tender. I like to use plain breadcrumbs, but seasoned ones can add extra flavor. Parmesan cheese brings in a salty bite. It pairs beautifully with the meat and spinach. Next, the additional ingredients enhance the mix. The egg acts as a binder. Dried oregano adds an earthy taste. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning. Cheese is the fun part! Mozzarella adds a creamy surprise inside. It melts when cooked, creating a delicious center. For serving, a good marinara sauce complements the meatballs perfectly. Lastly, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Check the full recipe for all steps and tips. Enjoy making these meatballs! - Set temperature to 400°F (200°C) - Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper Start by preheating your oven. This helps cook the meatballs evenly. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep the meatballs from sticking. - Combine ground meat and vegetables - Mix in breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings In a big bowl, mix the ground meat with the chopped spinach and minced garlic. Add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix well. Make sure all the ingredients blend together. This step is key for good flavor. - Form meatballs around mozzarella cubes - Ensure cheese is completely enclosed Take a small amount of meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully covered. This keeps the gooey cheese inside when cooking. - Arrange on a baking sheet - Bake for 20-25 minutes Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Check that they are cooked through and nicely browned. - Warm sauce in a saucepan over medium heat While the meatballs bake, grab a saucepan. Pour in the marinara sauce and heat it over medium. Stir occasionally until the sauce is warm. This will complement the meatballs perfectly. - Plate meatballs and pour sauce over - Garnish with fresh basil leaves Once the meatballs are ready, place them on a plate. Pour the warm marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a nice touch. For the full recipe, you can refer back to the ingredients section. Enjoy! To avoid dry meatballs, use a good mix of meat and fat. Ground beef has more fat than turkey, which helps keep the meatballs moist. Adding fresh spinach also adds moisture. Binding agents like breadcrumbs and eggs help hold everything together. Use enough breadcrumbs to keep the meatballs from falling apart. For extra flavor, try adding crushed red pepper for heat or Italian herbs like thyme. You can also mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. As for cheese, while mozzarella is classic, you could use provolone or even feta for a unique taste. Mixing different cheeses can create a delightful surprise in every bite. These meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti or crusty bread. Serve them as a main dish or as tasty appetizers at a party. You can arrange them on a platter and pour marinara sauce over the top for a stunning presentation. Garnish with fresh basil for color and aroma. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. {{image_2}} You can switch up the meat in these meatballs. Ground chicken is a lighter choice. It pairs well with spinach and garlic. Plus, it's just as tasty! For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based meat. Many brands offer great flavors and textures. You won’t miss the beef or turkey at all! Mozzarella is fantastic, but other cheeses can shine too. Try using provolone for a bolder taste. Ricotta offers a creamy texture that’s delightful. Mixing cheeses can create a unique flavor profile. Imagine mozzarella with a hint of sharp cheddar. This combo can surprise your taste buds in the best way! While marinara is classic, it’s not your only option. You can serve these meatballs with pesto for a fresh twist. The herbal notes of pesto complement the garlic well. A white sauce can also work wonders, adding a rich creaminess. Explore different sauces to find your favorite match! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. To keep your spinach garlic meatballs fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal the container well to avoid any odors from other foods. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They will last in the freezer for about 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. In the fridge, your meatballs will stay good for about 3 days. If you notice any off smells or changes in color, it's best to throw them away. Always trust your senses to check for spoilage. Yes, you can make spinach garlic meatballs ahead of time. To meal prep, follow these tips: - Mix the meatball mixture: Combine your ingredients and form the meatballs. - Store raw meatballs: Place them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a day. - Freeze for later: You can freeze the raw meatballs for up to three months. Just freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. - Cook when ready: Bake them directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cook time. If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, you have several options: - Crushed crackers: Use crushed gluten-free crackers for a similar texture. - Oats: Ground oats work well as a binder. Just pulse them in a blender. - Cornmeal: This gives a nice crunch and is gluten-free. - Almond flour: It’s low-carb and adds a nutty flavor. To ensure your meatballs are fully cooked, follow these guidelines: - Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer. The center should reach 165°F (74°C). - Visual cues: Look for a golden brown color on the outside and no pink inside. Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Here’s how: - Thawing: Place the frozen spinach in the fridge overnight. - Draining excess liquid: Squeeze out moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This helps your meatballs stay firm. - Mixing in: Add the thawed spinach to your meatball mixture as you would fresh. To reheat leftover meatballs while keeping their texture and flavor, try these methods: - Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes. - Stovetop: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of marinara sauce for moisture. - Microwave: Heat in short bursts, checking often. This method can make them a bit soggy, so use it as a last resort. For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. These stuffed meatballs blend ground meat and fresh spinach for a tasty meal. You can customize them with different cheeses and sauces to match your taste. Remember to store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. Whether you serve them with pasta or as an appetizer, these meatballs promise satisfaction. Experiment with variations to find your favorite combination. Enjoy the cooking process and let your creativity shine!](https://grilledflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/a4c50d94-3d02-4f83-b0bb-3e2af46d3350.webp)
Craving a dish that’s savory, cheesy, and easy to make? Look no further! In this post, I’ll show you how to whip up Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella. These meatballs are packed with flavor and health benefits. Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender meatball, only to discover gooey mozzarella inside! These meatballs are perfect for dinner or as a tasty appetizer. Let’s dive into the recipe you’ll want on repeat!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional Ingredients
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups marinara sauce (for serving)
– Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
The heart of these Spinach Garlic Meatballs lies in the ingredients. You want to start with fresh, high-quality products. Ground beef or turkey serves as the base. Both add great flavor and texture. I prefer turkey for a lighter option, but beef adds a rich taste.
Spinach brings a burst of color and nutrients. Make sure to chop it finely. This helps it mix well without dominating the meatball. Garlic adds a strong, savory flavor. Use fresh cloves for the best taste.
Breadcrumbs are crucial for binding. They help keep the meatballs tender. I like to use plain breadcrumbs, but seasoned ones can add extra flavor. Parmesan cheese brings in a salty bite. It pairs beautifully with the meat and spinach.
Next, the additional ingredients enhance the mix. The egg acts as a binder. Dried oregano adds an earthy taste. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning.
Cheese is the fun part! Mozzarella adds a creamy surprise inside. It melts when cooked, creating a delicious center. For serving, a good marinara sauce complements the meatballs perfectly. Lastly, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Check the full recipe for all steps and tips. Enjoy making these meatballs!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
– Set temperature to 400°F (200°C)
– Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper
Start by preheating your oven. This helps cook the meatballs evenly. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep the meatballs from sticking.
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
– Combine ground meat and vegetables
– Mix in breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings
In a big bowl, mix the ground meat with the chopped spinach and minced garlic. Add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix well. Make sure all the ingredients blend together. This step is key for good flavor.
Stuff the Meatballs
– Form meatballs around mozzarella cubes
– Ensure cheese is completely enclosed
Take a small amount of meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully covered. This keeps the gooey cheese inside when cooking.
Bake the Meatballs
– Arrange on a baking sheet
– Bake for 20-25 minutes
Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Check that they are cooked through and nicely browned.
Heat the Marinara Sauce
– Warm sauce in a saucepan over medium heat
While the meatballs bake, grab a saucepan. Pour in the marinara sauce and heat it over medium. Stir occasionally until the sauce is warm. This will complement the meatballs perfectly.
Serve the Dish
– Plate meatballs and pour sauce over
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves
Once the meatballs are ready, place them on a plate. Pour the warm marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a nice touch. For the full recipe, you can refer back to the ingredients section. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Texture
To avoid dry meatballs, use a good mix of meat and fat. Ground beef has more fat than turkey, which helps keep the meatballs moist. Adding fresh spinach also adds moisture. Binding agents like breadcrumbs and eggs help hold everything together. Use enough breadcrumbs to keep the meatballs from falling apart.
Flavor Enhancements
For extra flavor, try adding crushed red pepper for heat or Italian herbs like thyme. You can also mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. As for cheese, while mozzarella is classic, you could use provolone or even feta for a unique taste. Mixing different cheeses can create a delightful surprise in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti or crusty bread. Serve them as a main dish or as tasty appetizers at a party. You can arrange them on a platter and pour marinara sauce over the top for a stunning presentation. Garnish with fresh basil for color and aroma. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Variations
Meat Options
You can switch up the meat in these meatballs. Ground chicken is a lighter choice. It pairs well with spinach and garlic. Plus, it’s just as tasty! For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based meat. Many brands offer great flavors and textures. You won’t miss the beef or turkey at all!
Cheese Fillings
Mozzarella is fantastic, but other cheeses can shine too. Try using provolone for a bolder taste. Ricotta offers a creamy texture that’s delightful. Mixing cheeses can create a unique flavor profile. Imagine mozzarella with a hint of sharp cheddar. This combo can surprise your taste buds in the best way!
Sauces to Serve With
While marinara is classic, it’s not your only option. You can serve these meatballs with pesto for a fresh twist. The herbal notes of pesto complement the garlic well. A white sauce can also work wonders, adding a rich creaminess. Explore different sauces to find your favorite match! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your spinach garlic meatballs fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal the container well to avoid any odors from other foods.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They will last in the freezer for about 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your meatballs will stay good for about 3 days. If you notice any off smells or changes in color, it’s best to throw them away. Always trust your senses to check for spoilage.
FAQs
Can I make spinach garlic meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make spinach garlic meatballs ahead of time. To meal prep, follow these tips:
– Mix the meatball mixture: Combine your ingredients and form the meatballs.
– Store raw meatballs: Place them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a day.
– Freeze for later: You can freeze the raw meatballs for up to three months. Just freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag.
– Cook when ready: Bake them directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, you have several options:
– Crushed crackers: Use crushed gluten-free crackers for a similar texture.
– Oats: Ground oats work well as a binder. Just pulse them in a blender.
– Cornmeal: This gives a nice crunch and is gluten-free.
– Almond flour: It’s low-carb and adds a nutty flavor.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure your meatballs are fully cooked, follow these guidelines:
– Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer. The center should reach 165°F (74°C).
– Visual cues: Look for a golden brown color on the outside and no pink inside.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Here’s how:
– Thawing: Place the frozen spinach in the fridge overnight.
– Draining excess liquid: Squeeze out moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This helps your meatballs stay firm.
– Mixing in: Add the thawed spinach to your meatball mixture as you would fresh.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover meatballs?
To reheat leftover meatballs while keeping their texture and flavor, try these methods:
– Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes.
– Stovetop: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of marinara sauce for moisture.
– Microwave: Heat in short bursts, checking often. This method can make them a bit soggy, so use it as a last resort.
For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe].
These stuffed meatballs blend ground meat and fresh spinach for a tasty meal. You can customize them with different cheeses and sauces to match your taste. Remember to store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. Whether you serve them with pasta or as an appetizer, these meatballs promise satisfaction. Experiment with variations to find your favorite combination. Enjoy the cooking process and let your creativity shine!
![- 1 pound ground beef or turkey - 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 salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes - 2 cups marinara sauce (for serving) - Fresh basil leaves (for garnish) The heart of these Spinach Garlic Meatballs lies in the ingredients. You want to start with fresh, high-quality products. Ground beef or turkey serves as the base. Both add great flavor and texture. I prefer turkey for a lighter option, but beef adds a rich taste. Spinach brings a burst of color and nutrients. Make sure to chop it finely. This helps it mix well without dominating the meatball. Garlic adds a strong, savory flavor. Use fresh cloves for the best taste. Breadcrumbs are crucial for binding. They help keep the meatballs tender. I like to use plain breadcrumbs, but seasoned ones can add extra flavor. Parmesan cheese brings in a salty bite. It pairs beautifully with the meat and spinach. Next, the additional ingredients enhance the mix. The egg acts as a binder. Dried oregano adds an earthy taste. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning. Cheese is the fun part! Mozzarella adds a creamy surprise inside. It melts when cooked, creating a delicious center. For serving, a good marinara sauce complements the meatballs perfectly. Lastly, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Check the full recipe for all steps and tips. Enjoy making these meatballs! - Set temperature to 400°F (200°C) - Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper Start by preheating your oven. This helps cook the meatballs evenly. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep the meatballs from sticking. - Combine ground meat and vegetables - Mix in breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings In a big bowl, mix the ground meat with the chopped spinach and minced garlic. Add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix well. Make sure all the ingredients blend together. This step is key for good flavor. - Form meatballs around mozzarella cubes - Ensure cheese is completely enclosed Take a small amount of meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Fold the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully covered. This keeps the gooey cheese inside when cooking. - Arrange on a baking sheet - Bake for 20-25 minutes Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Check that they are cooked through and nicely browned. - Warm sauce in a saucepan over medium heat While the meatballs bake, grab a saucepan. Pour in the marinara sauce and heat it over medium. Stir occasionally until the sauce is warm. This will complement the meatballs perfectly. - Plate meatballs and pour sauce over - Garnish with fresh basil leaves Once the meatballs are ready, place them on a plate. Pour the warm marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a nice touch. For the full recipe, you can refer back to the ingredients section. Enjoy! To avoid dry meatballs, use a good mix of meat and fat. Ground beef has more fat than turkey, which helps keep the meatballs moist. Adding fresh spinach also adds moisture. Binding agents like breadcrumbs and eggs help hold everything together. Use enough breadcrumbs to keep the meatballs from falling apart. For extra flavor, try adding crushed red pepper for heat or Italian herbs like thyme. You can also mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. As for cheese, while mozzarella is classic, you could use provolone or even feta for a unique taste. Mixing different cheeses can create a delightful surprise in every bite. These meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti or crusty bread. Serve them as a main dish or as tasty appetizers at a party. You can arrange them on a platter and pour marinara sauce over the top for a stunning presentation. Garnish with fresh basil for color and aroma. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. {{image_2}} You can switch up the meat in these meatballs. Ground chicken is a lighter choice. It pairs well with spinach and garlic. Plus, it's just as tasty! For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based meat. Many brands offer great flavors and textures. You won’t miss the beef or turkey at all! Mozzarella is fantastic, but other cheeses can shine too. Try using provolone for a bolder taste. Ricotta offers a creamy texture that’s delightful. Mixing cheeses can create a unique flavor profile. Imagine mozzarella with a hint of sharp cheddar. This combo can surprise your taste buds in the best way! While marinara is classic, it’s not your only option. You can serve these meatballs with pesto for a fresh twist. The herbal notes of pesto complement the garlic well. A white sauce can also work wonders, adding a rich creaminess. Explore different sauces to find your favorite match! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. To keep your spinach garlic meatballs fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal the container well to avoid any odors from other foods. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They will last in the freezer for about 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. In the fridge, your meatballs will stay good for about 3 days. If you notice any off smells or changes in color, it's best to throw them away. Always trust your senses to check for spoilage. Yes, you can make spinach garlic meatballs ahead of time. To meal prep, follow these tips: - Mix the meatball mixture: Combine your ingredients and form the meatballs. - Store raw meatballs: Place them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a day. - Freeze for later: You can freeze the raw meatballs for up to three months. Just freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. - Cook when ready: Bake them directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cook time. If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, you have several options: - Crushed crackers: Use crushed gluten-free crackers for a similar texture. - Oats: Ground oats work well as a binder. Just pulse them in a blender. - Cornmeal: This gives a nice crunch and is gluten-free. - Almond flour: It’s low-carb and adds a nutty flavor. To ensure your meatballs are fully cooked, follow these guidelines: - Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer. The center should reach 165°F (74°C). - Visual cues: Look for a golden brown color on the outside and no pink inside. Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Here’s how: - Thawing: Place the frozen spinach in the fridge overnight. - Draining excess liquid: Squeeze out moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This helps your meatballs stay firm. - Mixing in: Add the thawed spinach to your meatball mixture as you would fresh. To reheat leftover meatballs while keeping their texture and flavor, try these methods: - Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes. - Stovetop: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of marinara sauce for moisture. - Microwave: Heat in short bursts, checking often. This method can make them a bit soggy, so use it as a last resort. For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. These stuffed meatballs blend ground meat and fresh spinach for a tasty meal. You can customize them with different cheeses and sauces to match your taste. Remember to store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. Whether you serve them with pasta or as an appetizer, these meatballs promise satisfaction. Experiment with variations to find your favorite combination. Enjoy the cooking process and let your creativity shine!](https://grilledflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/a4c50d94-3d02-4f83-b0bb-3e2af46d3350-300x300.webp)