Spinach Garlic Meatballs Mozzarella (Print Version)
Tender meatballs with spinach, garlic, and melty mozzarella served in rich marinara. Delicious and satisfying.
# Ingredients:
→ Spinach Preparation
01 -
225 grams fresh baby spinach
02 -
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
03 -
15–30 millilitres olive oil
→ Meatball Mixture
04 -
450 grams ground beef
05 -
450 grams ground pork
06 -
240 grams bread crumbs
07 -
3 large eggs
08 -
30 millilitres milk
09 -
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
10 -
50 grams Parmesan cheese, finely grated
11 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
12 -
30 millilitres olive oil
13 -
150 grams mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
14 -
680 grams marinara sauce (1 jar)
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add fresh baby spinach and toss until coated, allowing it to wilt for several minutes.
02 -
Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
03 -
Transfer the wilted spinach and garlic mixture to a chopping board, finely chop, and set aside to cool completely.
04 -
Preheat oven to 175°C. Line a baking tray or have an ovenproof skillet ready.
05 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, eggs, milk, chopped garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and the cooled spinach mixture. Mix gently until evenly incorporated.
06 -
Shape the meat mixture into even balls. Press a small cube of mozzarella into the centre of each, rolling to fully enclose the cheese.
07 -
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs on all sides until golden brown and a firm crust forms.
08 -
Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the skillet. Arrange the browned meatballs atop the sauce.
09 -
Cover the skillet tightly with foil and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked and reach an internal temperature of 74°C.
10 -
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Pair with pasta or bread as preferred.
# Notes:
01 -
Allow the spinach mixture to cool completely before incorporating into the meat to prevent overcooking and to ensure even mixing.
02 -
Stuffing cheese in the meatball center creates a creamy melted core; ensure meatballs are well sealed to prevent cheese leakage.