Description
Juicy, flavorful meatballs packed with spinach, garlic, and a gooey mozzarella cheese center, perfect for serving over pasta or as a hearty appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, spinach, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Take a small handful of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a mozzarella cube in the center and wrap the meat around it, rolling into a smooth ball. Repeat with remaining mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot with warmed marinara sauce over pasta or as desired.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Main
- Cuisine: Italian-American