Here is a perfect, detailed recipe for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella — juicy, cheesy, Mediterranean-inspired, and super delicious! 😍🧆🧀🌿

⭐ Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

Soft, juicy meatballs loaded with garlic, herbs, fresh spinach, and a gooey mozzarella center — baked or pan-seared!

🛒 Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 500g ground beef (or chicken/turkey)

• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped

• 4–5 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 1 egg

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional but amazing)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional)

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For Stuffing

• 150–200g mozzarella cheese, cut into ½–1 inch cubes
  (Fresh or block mozzarella works best)

For Sauce (Optional but Recommended)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp oregano

• ½ tsp chili flakes

• Salt & pepper

• Fresh basil (optional)

🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mix

In a large bowl, combine:

• Ground beef

• Chopped spinach

• Garlic

• Egg

• Breadcrumbs

• Parmesan

• Oregano, basil, paprika, chili flakes

• Salt & pepper

Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
(Don’t overmix — keeps meatballs tender!)

2. Shape & Stuff

1. Scoop a small amount of meat mixture into your hand.

2. Flatten it slightly and place a mozzarella cube in the center.

3. Seal the meat completely around the cheese.

4. Roll gently into a smooth ball.

5. Repeat until all meatballs are ready.

3. Cook the Meatballs

Option A — Bake (Healthier)

• Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)

• Brush a tray with olive oil

• Bake meatballs for 18–22 minutes, until golden

Option B — Pan Sear (More Flavor)

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan

• Cook meatballs on medium heat for 8–10 minutes, turning often

• They should be browned and fully cooked

4. (Optional) Make Garlic Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil

2. Add garlic, sauté until fragrant

3. Add tomato puree, oregano, chili flakes, salt & pepper

4. Simmer for 5–7 minutes

5. Add cooked meatballs and coat them

🌿 Serve With

• Pasta

• Rice

• Garlic bread

• On its own as a high-protein snack

• Mediterranean salad

😋 Chef Tips

✔ Use chilled mozzarella so it doesn’t melt out
✔ Add chopped parsley for extra flavor
✔ For even softer meatballs, mix in 2 tbsp milk
✔ Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 min for a crispy finish