These cheesy, juicy meatballs are the kind of comfort food that makes everyone race to the dinner table. With garlicky spinach mixed into the meat and a gooey mozzarella center, every bite is rich, savory, and completely satisfying. They’re perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or impressing anyone who loves bold, homemade flavors.
Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella
Ingredients
Spinach:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh baby spinach | 8 ounces |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 3 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1–2 tablespoons |
Meatballs:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Ground pork | 1 pound |
| Bread crumbs | 2 1/4 cups |
| Eggs | 3–4 |
| Milk (splash) | |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 4 cloves |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes | |
| Rao’s marinara sauce (1 jar) |
Instructions
Spinach:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the baby spinach and toss until everything is lightly coated. Cook for a few minutes until wilted. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for another minute or two until fragrant. Remove from the pan, chop the spinach mixture into small pieces, and let it cool completely.
Meatballs:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, eggs, a splash of milk, chopped garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and the cooled spinach mixture. Mix gently until everything is evenly combined.
Scoop a portion of the meat mixture into your hand, flatten it slightly, and place a small mozzarella cube in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll into a firm ball. Continue until all meatballs are formed.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet and sear the meatballs for a couple of minutes on each side until lightly browned. Transfer them to a baking dish.
Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, making sure each one is lightly coated. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until fully cooked and the cheese inside is melted.
Serve warm with pasta, rice, crusty bread, or enjoy them on their own as a hearty appetizer.
