Here is a perfect, detailed recipe for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella — juicy, cheesy, Mediterranean-inspired, and super delicious! 😍🧆🧀🌿
⭐ Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella
Soft, juicy meatballs loaded with garlic, herbs, fresh spinach, and a gooey mozzarella center — baked or pan-seared!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Meatballs
500g ground beef (or chicken/turkey)
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional but amazing)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
For Stuffing
150–200g mozzarella cheese, cut into ½–1 inch cubes
(Fresh or block mozzarella works best)
For Sauce (Optional but Recommended)
2 tbsp olive oil
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp chili flakes
Salt & pepper
Fresh basil (optional)
🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatball Mix
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Chopped spinach
Garlic
Egg
Breadcrumbs
Parmesan
Oregano, basil, paprika, chili flakes
Salt & pepper
Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
(Don’t overmix — keeps meatballs tender!)
2. Shape & Stuff
Scoop a small amount of meat mixture into your hand.
Flatten it slightly and place a mozzarella cube in the center.
Seal the meat completely around the cheese.
Roll gently into a smooth ball.
Repeat until all meatballs are ready.
3. Cook the Meatballs
Option A — Bake (Healthier)
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
Brush a tray with olive oil
Bake meatballs for 18–22 minutes, until golden
Option B — Pan Sear (More Flavor)
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan
Cook meatballs on medium heat for 8–10 minutes, turning often
They should be browned and fully cooked
4. (Optional) Make Garlic Tomato Sauce
Heat olive oil
Add garlic, sauté until fragrant
Add tomato puree, oregano, chili flakes, salt & pepper
Simmer for 5–7 minutes
Add cooked meatballs and coat them
🌿 Serve With
Pasta
Rice
Garlic bread
On its own as a high-protein snack
Mediterranean salad
😋 Chef Tips
✔ Use chilled mozzarella so it doesn’t melt out
✔ Add chopped parsley for extra flavor
✔ For even softer meatballs, mix in 2 tbsp milk
✔ Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 min for a crispy finish

