Introduction

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella are a savory delight that combines wholesome ingredients with a burst of cheesy goodness. Perfect for a comforting meal or as an appetizer, this recipe is not only delicious but also fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle, especially for those following the Weight Watchers (WW) program. Each meatball is carefully crafted to be low in SmartPoints while maximizing flavor and satisfaction.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey (or chicken)
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese, cut into 12 cubes
  • Cooking spray
  • Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.
  2. Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Form Meatballs: Take a golf ball-sized portion of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then shape the meat mixture around the cheese, forming a meatball. Repeat until all the meat mixture is used, making approximately 12 meatballs.
  4. Bake: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the meatballs with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
  5. Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Introduction

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella are a savory delight that combines wholesome ingredients with a burst of cheesy goodness. Perfect for a comforting meal or as an appetizer, this recipe is not only delicious but also fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle, especially for those following the Weight Watchers (WW) program. Each meatball is carefully crafted to be low in SmartPoints while maximizing flavor and satisfaction.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey (or chicken)
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese, cut into 12 cubes
  • Cooking spray
  • Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.
  2. Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Form Meatballs: Take a golf ball-sized portion of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then shape the meat mixture around the cheese, forming a meatball. Repeat until all the meat mixture is used, making approximately 12 meatballs.
  4. Bake: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the meatballs with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
  5. Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Nutritional Information

  • Servings: 4 (3 meatballs per serving)
  • Serving Size: 3 meatballs
  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Total Fat: 13g
    • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 32g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

  • Each serving of 3 meatballs is 5 SmartPoints on the WW Blue and Purple plans, and 8 SmartPoints on the Green plan.

Additional Tips

  • Variations: Feel free to customize these meatballs by using ground chicken instead of turkey, or experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
  • Make Ahead: These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Freezing: You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve these spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella as a main dish with a side of whole grain pasta or a fresh green salad. They also make a fantastic appetizer for parties or gatherings.

Conclusion

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella are a testament to how flavorful and satisfying healthy eating can be. By using lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and part-skim mozzarella, you create a dish that not only tastes indulgent but also supports your wellness goals. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner option or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress with their gooey cheese center and savory exterior.

Enjoy the wholesome goodness of these meatballs knowing that each bite is crafted to provide a balanced blend of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Embrace the joy of cooking with nutritious ingredients that nourish both body and soul.