There’s something magical about the moment you cut into a juicy meatball and discover gooey, melty mozzarella waiting inside. These Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a cozy comfort food that’s both fun to make and irresistible to eat. Whether you’re serving them on a busy weeknight with pasta, as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, or as part of a holiday spread, they never disappoint.
This recipe is inspired by the flavors of traditional Italian meatballs, but with a fresh twist: nutrient-packed spinach and aromatic garlic are mixed right into the meat, and each ball hides a cheesy surprise in the center. They’re hearty, flavorful, and just the right balance of indulgence and nourishment. If you’re ready for a recipe that will wow your family and friends, keep reading—you’ll want to bookmark this one!
Why You’ll Love These Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs
- Cheesy surprise – Each bite reveals a molten mozzarella core that takes these meatballs to the next level.
- Nutritious twist – Fresh spinach sneaks in extra vitamins, minerals, and fiber without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile serving options – Pair them with pasta, dip them in marinara, or serve them on slider buns.
- Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for picky eaters and foodies alike, these meatballs are comfort food at its finest.
- Easy to prepare – With a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can have these ready in under an hour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything that goes into these irresistible spinach garlic meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra juiciness)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped – adds flavor, color, and nutrients.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – for that classic savory aroma.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – helps bind everything together.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for richness and umami.
- 1 large egg – holds the mixture together.
- 1/2 tsp salt – enhances the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – for a subtle kick.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning – adds that herby, comforting flavor.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes – the melty surprise inside!
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for cooking the meatballs until golden.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat—this ensures the meatballs stay tender.
2. Stuff with Mozzarella
Scoop out about 1–2 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a mozzarella cube in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around it, sealing the cheese completely inside. Roll into a ball. Repeat until all meat and cheese are used.
3. Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown on the outside and cooked through.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the meatballs warm with marinara sauce, over pasta, or in sliders. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Meatballs
- Seal the cheese well – Make sure the meat mixture fully encases the mozzarella to prevent leaks while cooking.
- Use fresh mozzarella if possible – It melts creamier than pre-shredded varieties.
- Chill before cooking – Place the rolled meatballs in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Try baking instead – For a lighter version, bake the meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet pan at 400°F for 18–20 minutes.
- Double the batch – These freeze beautifully! Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Benefits of Spinach Garlic Meatballs
Not only are these meatballs delicious, but they’re also sneaky-healthy thanks to the spinach. Here’s why they’re a great addition to your dinner rotation:
- Spinach provides iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants that support bone health and immunity.
- Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and heart-healthy benefits.
- Mozzarella cheese adds protein and calcium, making the dish filling and satisfying.
- Lean ground beef (or a beef/pork blend) supplies protein to keep you energized.
It’s the perfect way to get kids and adults alike to eat more greens—without a single complaint.
Serving Ideas
These mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are incredibly versatile. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy them:
- Classic Italian dinner – Serve over spaghetti with marinara sauce and garlic bread on the side.
- Appetizer platter – Skewer them with toothpicks and pair with a dipping sauce for parties.
- Meatball subs – Tuck them into crusty rolls, smother with sauce and cheese, and bake until bubbly.
- Low-carb option – Serve with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter take.
- Party-friendly sliders – Sandwich them between small brioche buns for game day or casual get-togethers.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
- Refrigerate ahead – You can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Freeze raw meatballs – Place uncooked stuffed meatballs on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Freeze cooked meatballs – Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in marinara sauce on the stove or in the oven until warmed through.
Common Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter option, though the meatballs may be slightly less juicy.
What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
Frozen spinach works too—just thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the mixture.
How do I keep the mozzarella from leaking out?
Make sure the meat mixture completely seals the cheese inside, and avoid using overly large chunks of mozzarella.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a great hands-off option and results in less oil splatter.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair these meatballs with:
- Pasta – Spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni tossed in marinara sauce.
- Wine – A glass of Chianti, Cabernet Sauvignon, or even a crisp Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.
- Sides – Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables round out the meal.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this recipe stand out is the balance of flavors and textures:
- The juicy ground meat base seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs.
- The fresh spinach that adds moisture and nutrients without overpowering.
- The gooey mozzarella center that creates that irresistible cheesy pull.
- The golden sear from cooking in olive oil, which locks in flavor.
Every bite is hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s comfort food you’ll return to again and again.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s as impressive as it is comforting, these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are a must-try. They’re easy enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for entertaining. With the perfect balance of nutritious greens, savory garlic, juicy meat, and melty cheese, they bring joy to the table every time.
So, grab your skillet and mozzarella cubes—it’s time to turn an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary. Trust me, once you try these stuffed meatballs, they’ll become a regular on your menu.