Spinach Garlic Meatballs Mozzarella (Print Version)
Juicy meatballs loaded with spinach, garlic, and mozzarella for a satisfying, savory meal.
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 -
2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed and chopped, or 1/2 cup well-drained frozen spinach
03 -
8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
06 -
1 large egg
07 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 -
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
09 -
1 teaspoon salt
10 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
11 -
3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more as needed for searing
# Steps:
01 -
In a skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from the heat, let cool briefly, and chop finely.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, egg, and the cooled spinach mixture. Mix gently until evenly incorporated.
03 -
Scoop a portion of the mixture, flatten in your palm, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and encase the cheese by forming the mixture into a sealed ball. Repeat with remaining mixture and mozzarella.
04 -
Heat remaining olive oil in a clean skillet over medium heat. Arrange meatballs in a single layer and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning until all sides are golden brown.
05 -
For even cooking, cover the skillet and continue cooking over low-medium heat for 10 to 12 minutes, or alternatively transfer the skillet to a 375°F oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and cheese is melted.
# Notes:
01 -
Chopping the sautéed spinach finely ensures it blends seamlessly into the meatball mixture and distributes flavor evenly.