Description
These mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are juicy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Tender beef, savory herbs, and a melty mozzarella center make them an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Key Ingredients:
2 pounds ground beef
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Cheese Selection Tips:
Use low-moisture mozzarella for less water and better melt
Cut cheese into 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even melting
Freeze cubes for 15 minutes before stuffing for easier handling
Instructions
1. Let the ground beef sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, spinach, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan.
3. Mix gently with clean hands until just combined—do not overwork.
4. Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it into a small disc.
5. Place a frozen cube of mozzarella in the center, wrap the meat around it, and seal tightly.
6. Repeat until all meatballs are formed.
7. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
8. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden, then transfer to a baking dish.
9. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or until cooked through.
10. Serve warm with marinara sauce or over pasta.
Notes
Do not skip freezing the cheese—prevents leaking during cooking.
Pairs perfectly with spaghetti, sub rolls, or zucchini noodles.
Can be made ahead and frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked & Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg