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Appetizers & Snacks Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a savory and satisfying appetizer that perfectly balances healthy greens with an indulgent, cheesy center. The combination of fresh spinach and aromatic garlic creates a robust flavor profile that makes every bite incredibly delicious and memorable.

Ideal for game day gatherings, holiday parties, or a special family snack, these meatballs offer a delightful surprise with their hidden molten mozzarella filling. Serve them warm alongside a bowl of classic marinara sauce for the ultimate dipping experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Key Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 8 oz fresh baby spinach
  • 7 cloves garlic, finely chopped (divided)
  • 2 1/4 cups breadcrumbs
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 splash of milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lb fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the spinach and 3 cloves of chopped garlic, and sauté until the spinach is wilted.
  2. Remove the spinach mixture from the heat, chop it into small pieces, and allow it to cool completely.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, remaining 4 cloves of garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and the cooled spinach mixture.
  5. Mix the ingredients by hand until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  6. Scoop a portion of the meat mixture, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and roll the meat around the cheese to seal it completely into a ball.
  7. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and sear the meatballs until the outsides are golden brown.
  8. Add dollops of marinara sauce to the bottom of the skillet around the meatballs.
  9. Cover the skillet with foil and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  10. Serve the meatballs hot over your favorite pasta or as an appetizer.

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are the ultimate combination of savory, healthy, and indulgent. The fresh spinach and bold garlic add a wonderful depth of flavor to the tender meat, while the surprise center of melted mozzarella provides that perfect, gooey cheese pull every time. They are an excellent way to sneak some greens into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a main course that the whole family will love.

Whether you serve them alongside a zesty marinara sauce for dipping or pile them on top of a bed of pasta, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. They are simple to prepare, easy to bake, and offer a sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful, protein-packed dish that is as impressive to look at as it is delicious to eat.