Name: Easy Spinach Garlic Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground beef or turkey; 4 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 small Onion, finely chopped; 1 tbsp Parsley, chopped; 2 cups Fresh Spinach, chopped; 1 large Egg; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; Pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes; Salt to taste; 1 cup Breadcrumbs; 8 oz Low moisture mozzarella, cubed; 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese

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introduction

This recipe makes small, tasty meatballs with spinach and garlic. They cook in the oven and have melted mozzarella inside. They are quick to make and good for a weeknight meal. If you like simple comfort food, see my collection of easy potato soup recipes for more ideas.

why make this recipe

Make these meatballs because they are:

Fast and easy to mix and bake.
A bit healthier with fresh spinach.
Fun for kids because of the melted cheese inside.
Good for batch cooking and reheating.

how to make Easy Spinach Garlic Meatballs

Mix ingredients in a bowl, form small balls, press cheese inside, and bake. Work gently so the meatballs stay tender. For another meatball idea with bold flavor, try a take on bacon cheeseburger meatballs to see how different fillings change the taste.

Ingredients :

1 lb Ground beef or turkey
4 cloves Garlic, minced
1 small Onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp Parsley, chopped
2 cups Fresh Spinach, chopped
1 large Egg
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
Pepper to taste
1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
Salt to taste
1 cup Breadcrumbs
8 oz Low moisture mozzarella, cubed
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, garlic, onion, parsley, spinach, egg, Italian seasoning, pepper, red pepper flakes, salt, and breadcrumbs. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press a small cube of mozzarella into the center of each meatball. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving.

how to serve Easy Spinach Garlic Meatballs

Serve hot straight from the oven. They go well with:

Spaghetti or any pasta and a simple tomato sauce.
A green salad and crusty bread.
As appetizers with toothpicks and a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.

how to store Easy Spinach Garlic Meatballs

In the fridge: place cooled meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
In the freezer: freeze on a tray, then move to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

tips to make Easy Spinach Garlic Meatballs

Chop spinach small so it mixes well and cooks inside the meatball.
Do not overmix the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to make even meatballs.
For a quick meal, reheat and toss with pasta or rice; try a simple rice side like garlic ginger broth rice for a warm plate.

variation (if any)

Swap beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add chopped bell pepper or mushrooms to the mix.
Use cheddar or provolone instead of mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
Make them spicy by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes. Use ground oats or cooked rice to hold the mix if you need a gluten-free option.

Q: Can I bake them from frozen?
A: Yes. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time and check that they reach a safe internal temperature.

Q: How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?
A: Make sure you press the mozzarella cube well into the center and seal the meat tightly around it.

Q: Can I use pre-grated cheese?
A: For the center, use small cubes of block cheese. Pre-grated cheese tends to dry and may not melt the same.

Conclusion

For a stuffed version like this one, you can compare notes with a similar recipe for Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella to see another method of filling and baking. If you want serving ideas, this garlic olive oil pasta with meatballs and spinach is a nice pairing to try.