Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella


4. Cook the Meatballs

Option 1: Baked

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Option 2: Pan-Fried

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, for 8–10 minutes, or until browned on all sides and cooked through.

5. Simmer in Sauce (Optional)

  1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • As an Appetizer: Serve the meatballs on toothpicks with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
  • For Dinner: Pair with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • In Sandwiches: Stuff the meatballs into hoagie rolls for a melty, cheesy sandwich.
  • At Parties: Arrange on a platter with dipping sauces like marinara, pesto, or garlic aioli.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Seal the Cheese Well: Ensure the meat completely encases the mozzarella to prevent it from leaking during cooking.
  • Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds better texture and flavor compared to frozen spinach (if using frozen, squeeze out excess moisture).
  • Double the Batch: These meatballs freeze well—cook them first, then freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Add Herbs: Stir in fresh parsley or basil for extra brightness.

Final Thoughts

These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a flavor-packed twist on classic meatballs. With their juicy interior, cheesy surprise, and aromatic blend of spinach and garlic, they’re a dish that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.

So grab your ingredients, stuff those meatballs with gooey mozzarella, and bake or fry them to perfection. One bite of these cheesy, garlicky gems, and you’ll feel like you’ve brought the magic of Italian comfort food straight to your kitchen—one melty, flavorful meatball at a time! 🧀