Step-by-step instructions
Let’s get started on making these tasty meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat with olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken or turkey, spinach, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended.
- Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture, flatten it slightly, then place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball.
- Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet or place them in the skillet.
- If baking, cook for 18-20 minutes until they are cooked through and browned. If pan-searing, make sure they’re nicely browned on all sides and fully cooked.
Serve warm and enjoy with marinara sauce if desired!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Spinach Garlic Meatballs are wonderfully versatile. You can serve them on a bed of pasta, piled high on sub rolls for meatball sandwiches, or simply on their own as an appetizer. Pair them with a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal or toss them into a rich tomato sauce for a comforting dish. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top never hurts, either!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Spinach Garlic Meatballs fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to cool the meatballs completely before freezing! When reheating, you can pop them in the oven or heat them gently on the stovetop until they are warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few pro tips to make your cooking experience even smoother:
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture; this ensures that the meatballs stay tender.
- The cheese filling is most gooey when the meatballs are freshly cooked, so enjoy them right after they come out of the oven.
- For a little extra kick, add some red pepper flakes to the mixture or serve with a spicy marinara sauce!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to put your unique spin on these meatballs:
- Swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack for some added spice or ricotta for a creamier filling.
- For a low-carb version, use cauliflower breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as basil or parsley, to enhance the flavor profile.
Common questions
What is the prep time for the Spinach Garlic Meatballs?
The entire preparation and cooking process usually takes about 30-40 minutes, making it a perfect quick meal.
Can I use ground beef instead?
Absolutely! Ground beef can be substituted, just note that it will change the flavor and texture a bit, making it richer.
What if I want to make this dish ahead of time?
You can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them uncooked. When ready to serve, cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
With these flavorful and easy-to-make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to delight your family and friends every time! Enjoy the journey of cooking and the delicious rewards it brings.
