Description
Juicy, garlicky meatballs loaded with spinach and oozing with melted mozzarella cheese in every bite. Perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined.
- Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and shape the meat around it to form a ball, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed.
- Repeat with remaining meat and cheese. Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle or brush the meatballs with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until browned and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F).
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste. For a crispy exterior, broil for the last 2 minutes. Use any type of ground meat such as turkey or chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Main
- Cuisine: Italian