Description
Juicy, flavorful meatballs packed with spinach and garlic, each hiding a gooey mozzarella center, perfect for serving over pasta or as an appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 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 portion of the meat mixture (about 2 tbsp) and flatten it in your hand. Place a mozzarella cube in the center and wrap the meat around it, forming a 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 total, then transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and cheese is melted inside.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping or over cooked pasta.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Main
- Cuisine: Italian-American