Spinach Garlic Mozzarella Meatballs (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Meatball Base

01 - 450 g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
02 - 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 60 ml breadcrumbs
05 - 25 g grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 0.5 tsp fine salt
08 - 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
09 - 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning blend

→ Filling and Cooking

10 - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
11 - 2 tbsp olive oil

# Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning until just incorporated.
02 - Portion 1–2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten in the palm. Place a mozzarella cube at the center, then wrap the mixture around to seal completely. Form into a ball and repeat with remaining mixture and cheese.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches without overcrowding. Cook each batch 4–5 minutes per side until evenly browned and fully cooked through.
04 - Serve meatballs hot with marinara sauce for dipping or atop cooked pasta. Optionally garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil.

# Notes:

01 - To prevent tough meatballs, do not overmix the ingredients and ensure each meatball is fully sealed to keep mozzarella from leaking during cooking.