Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella Recipe :
INGREDIENTS :
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken, turkey, or beef
- 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped and sautéed)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Stuffing & Topping:
- 4–5 mozzarella string cheese sticks (cut into 1-inch chunks) OR fresh mozzarella balls
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing or baking tray)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions :
- Prepare the Spinach:
- Sauté chopped spinach in a little olive oil until wilted.
- Let it cool, then squeeze out any excess moisture.
- Make the Meatball Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, sautéed spinach, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings.
- Mix until well combined but not overworked.
- Shape & Stuff Meatballs:
- Take about 2 tbsp of mixture, flatten in your hand.
- Place a mozzarella cube in the center and wrap the meat around it, sealing edges tightly.
- Repeat until all meatballs are formed.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Option 1 (Oven-Baked): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a greased baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
- Option 2 (Skillet + Simmer): Sear meatballs in olive oil until browned, then simmer in marinara sauce for 10 minutes to finish cooking.
- Serve:
- Garnish with Parmesan and parsley.
- Serve over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or with crusty bread.
The gooey mozzarella center makes these meatballs extra irresistible!