Step-by-step instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined; don’t overwork the meat.
- Take a small portion of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then wrap the meat around it, rolling it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides and cooking through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Serve these delectable meatballs hot, drizzled with marinara sauce, or over your favorite pasta. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for that restaurant-quality touch!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Meatballs are versatile and can be served in countless ways! Pair them with spaghetti for a classic Italian feast, or toss them on a sub roll with marinara and melted cheese for a hearty meatball sandwich. A fresh arugula salad or roasted vegetables can add a nice contrast to the dish, balancing the richness perfectly.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers are great—if you have any! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or place them in a preheated oven until warmed through. These meatballs also freeze beautifully. Just ensure they are in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. Always reheat until piping hot to ensure food safety.
Pro chef tips
Don’t skip on chilling the mixture: If you have time, pop the meatball mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to enhance flavors with your favorite spices, like red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Use a cookie scoop: For uniformly sized meatballs, a cookie scoop can make the job much easier and quicker!
Creative twists
Want to change things up? Try using ground lamb or pork for a different flavor profile. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate feta cheese and olives into the mixture. You can even swap the spinach for other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Feeling adventurous? Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for an extra pop of taste!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare these meatballs?
Preparation takes about 15–20 minutes, and cooking them will take another 15–20 minutes. All in all, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour!
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will also work wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust cooking times slightly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
With their cheesy centers and savory flavors, these Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Meatballs are destined to be a hit at your table! Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish!
