Spinach Garlic Meatballs Mozzarella (Print-Friendly Version)
Juicy meatballs blend ground beef, fresh spinach, and garlic, each stuffed with gooey mozzarella and simmered in savory marinara. Ideal for family dinners or special weeknights, this comfort food classic is one to keep handy.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ Main Components
01 -
1 pound ground beef, 80/20 blend
02 -
8 ounces fresh baby spinach
03 -
7 cloves garlic, finely chopped, divided
04 -
2 1/4 cups fresh breadcrumbs
05 -
3 large eggs, room temperature
06 -
2 tablespoons whole milk
07 -
6 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
08 -
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
09 -
24 ounces marinara sauce
10 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How to Make It:
01 -
Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the baby spinach and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted. Stir in 3 cloves chopped garlic during the final minute until aromatic. Remove from heat and allow spinach to cool completely, then chop finely.
02 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, whole milk, remaining garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently by hand until just combined. Gently fold in the cooled chopped spinach until evenly distributed.
03 -
Divide the mixture into portions and flatten each in your palm. Insert a cube of mozzarella in the center, wrapping the mixture around to enclose the cheese completely and form a meatball. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, add meatballs and sear for 6 to 8 minutes, turning until browned on all sides.
04 -
Pour marinara sauce over and between the seared meatballs in the skillet. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the mozzarella is thoroughly melted.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Use fresh breadcrumbs for optimal binding and texture in the meatball mixture.