Cheesy spinach meatballs with garlic and melted mozzarella surprise inside on a rustic plate

There’s nothing quite like biting into a meatball and discovering a molten mozzarella surprise hidden inside. These cheesy spinach meatballs are packed with fresh spinach and aromatic garlic, making them a hearty yet fresh meal you’ll want to make again and again. You’re going to love how the gooey cheese melts perfectly inside every bite.

Cheesy spinach meatballs with garlic and melted mozzarella surprise inside on a rustic plate this Recipe
Cheesy Spinach & Garlic Meatballs With Mozzarella Surprise 3 Try these cheesy spinach meatballs with a mozzarella surprise inside for a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner the whole family will love.

This recipe for cheesy spinach meatballs is perfect for weeknight dinners or even meal prep. It’s simple to follow and yields delicious, crowd-pleasing results that meld the savory flavors of meat and garlic with the slight earthiness of spinach and the creamy richness of mozzarella.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Moist and tender meatballs with a delightful cheesy center in every bite.
  • Loaded with fresh spinach for added nutrition and color.
  • Easy to prepare and bake – minimal hands-on time.
  • Perfect as a main dish or appetizer for gatherings.
  • Freezable and reheats well without losing flavor or texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to make these cheesy spinach meatballs with a garlic kick.

  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 6 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (for stuffing)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 4 (about 16 meatballs)
  • Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

How to Make Cheesy Spinach & Garlic Meatballs: A Mozzarella Surprise Inside!

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, milk, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
  3. Take about 2 tablespoons of mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a mozzarella cube in the center and carefully fold the meat mixture around it, shaping into a ball. Repeat until all mixture is used.
  4. Place the formed meatballs on the greased baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
  5. Remove from oven and let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly. Serve warm with your favorite marinara or as is!

Tips for the Best Results

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender and juicy.
  • Make sure to seal the mozzarella cubes completely inside the meatballs to prevent leaking during baking.
  • Use fresh spinach rather than frozen for better texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • For extra flavor, add finely chopped onion or fresh herbs like parsley to the meat mixture.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cheesy spinach meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

To freeze, place meatballs in a single layer on a tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these meatballs without mozzarella inside?

Yes, you can omit the mozzarella cubes for a simpler meatball, but the gooey cheese surprise is what makes this recipe special. You can also substitute with other cheeses if desired.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can form the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes meal prep quick and convenient.

What sides go well with cheesy spinach meatballs?

These meatballs pair beautifully with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. They’re also great served over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh spinach, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture before mixing to avoid watery meatballs.

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