Spinach Garlic Mozzarella Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These meatballs are anything but ordinary. The addition of fresh spinach not only boosts nutrition but also brings a subtle earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic and herbs. The gooey mozzarella center makes every bite irresistible, while Parmesan and breadcrumbs keep the texture tender. They’re versatile enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to impress guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Meatball mixture

• 450g ground beef
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 60ml breadcrumbs
• 25g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon fine salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

 For the cheesy centers and cooking

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

1. In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, spinach, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix lightly to avoid tough meatballs.

2. Take 1–2 tablespoons of the mixture, flatten it in your palm, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Seal the meat around the cheese completely and roll into a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked.

4. Serve hot with marinara, over pasta, or in sandwiches. Garnish with Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 (makes 16–18 meatballs)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Overall Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Swap beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

• Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.

• Add chopped fresh basil or parsley to the mixture for a brighter flavor.

• Replace mozzarella with smoked provolone for a richer, smoky twist.

• Bake instead of pan-frying at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of marinara sauce, or warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes. For freezing, arrange uncooked meatballs on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can form the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?

Absolutely. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 18–20 minutes until fully cooked.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can substitute crushed crackers, rolled oats, or almond flour for a low-carb option.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure the mozzarella is fully enclosed by the meat mixture and sealed tightly.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the mixture.

What sauce pairs best with these meatballs?

Classic marinara works perfectly, but you can also try pesto, Alfredo, or a spicy arrabbiata sauce.

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?

Cubed mozzarella works best for a gooey center, but shredded can be pressed together into small balls as a substitute.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

They should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F).

Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep?

Yes, they freeze and reheat well, making them ideal for meal prep.

Can I make these meatballs without eggs?

You can replace the egg with 2 tablespoons of milk mixed with breadcrumbs as a binder.

Conclusion

Spinach garlic mozzarella meatballs bring together comfort food and a touch of gourmet with their flavorful mix of herbs, veggies, and melty cheese. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep, this recipe is versatile, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite. Whether served with pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own, these meatballs are a true crowd-pleaser.