Spinach Garlic Meatballs with Mozzarella (Printable)

Savory beef or turkey meatballs filled with fresh spinach, garlic, and surprise mozzarella centers. Baked or pan-seared to golden perfection.

# What You’ll Use:

→ Meatballs

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→ Optional Enhancements

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# How-To:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F or prepare a skillet for pan-searing.
02 - Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sauté spinach and half the minced garlic until spinach is wilted, about 3–4 minutes. Let cool, then finely chop.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, remaining garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped spinach. Mix gently until just combined; do not overmix.
04 - With damp hands, take about 2 tablespoons of mixture and flatten. Place a mozzarella cube in the center, then shape the meat around the cheese, sealing completely. Repeat with remaining mixture and cheese.
05 - Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
06 - Bake for 20–25 minutes until browned and cooked through, or pan-sear in oil over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
07 - Simmer cooked meatballs in warm marinara sauce for 5–10 minutes for extra flavor.
08 - Let meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.

# Expert Advice:

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  • The surprise mozzarella center creates an incredible burst of gooey goodness when you cut into each meatball
  • Spinach adds nutrition without compromising on the rich savory flavors everyone craves
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  • Keep your mozzarella cubes in the freezer for 15 minutes before stuffing to prevent them from melting out too early
  • Work quickly when forming the meatballs because the heat from your hands starts softening the cheese
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  • Use a small cookie scoop to portion the meat evenly before stuffing for uniform meatballs
  • Place the formed meatballs in the fridge for 20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape
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