Quick Description
These juicy garlic-infused meatballs are packed with flavor, tender spinach, and a gooey mozzarella center hidden inside. Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, they’re ideal for dinner, meal prep, or serving over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4 (about 4–5 meatballs per serving)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or beef & pork blend)
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground meat
- Finely chopped spinach
- Minced garlic
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Italian seasoning
- Smoked paprika
Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix to keep meatballs tender.
Step 3: Stuff the Meatballs
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of meat mixture.
Flatten slightly in your palm.
Place a cube of mozzarella in the center.
Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll into a sealed ball.
Repeat with remaining mixture.
Step 4: Brown for Extra Flavor
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Brown meatballs on all sides for about 2–3 minutes per side.
This step locks in flavor and creates a beautiful crust.
Step 5: Bake
Transfer browned meatballs to the prepared baking tray.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and cheese inside is melted.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Serve hot.
Serving Ideas
- Over pasta with marinara sauce
- With mashed potatoes
- On zucchini noodles for lower carbs
- Inside a toasted sub roll
- As party appetizers with dipping sauce
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: ~385 kcal
Protein: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~10g
Fat: ~26g
Fiber: ~1g
Sodium: ~620mg
(Nutrition may vary depending on meat fat percentage and mozzarella type.)
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh mozzarella for extra gooey centers.
- Keep meatballs evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- If skipping browning, bake 18–20 minutes total.
- For a lighter option, use lean ground turkey.
Storage & Meal Prep
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months.
Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or microwave until warm.
