Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe

BySarah
Jump to Recipe·5 from 10 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, delicious, and somehow sneaky way to get more greens into your meal, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine juicy meatballs packed with fresh spinach and fragrant garlic, melting mozzarella in the middle, and seasoned just right. It’s one of those recipes that’s as comforting as your favorite Sunday dinner but with a nutritious twist. Plus, it’s super straightforward, so stick around — I promise you’ll want to make these again and again.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Flavors: The garlic and spinach provide freshness and aromatics that elevate the savory meat.
  • Melty Mozzarella Center: Chilled cheese cubes stay intact during cooking, giving you that gooey cheese surprise inside each bite.
  • Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether baked or pan-seared, the meatballs turn out juicy and flavorful every time.
  • Easy to Customize: Add your favorite herbs or spice it up with red pepper flakes for a personal touch you’ll love.
Spinach Garlic Meatballs, healthy spinach meatballs, cheesy spinach meatballs, easy garlic meatballs, savory meatball recipes - The image shows a close-up of several round, cooked meatballs with a golden-brown and slightly crispy top layer. The surface of the meatballs has small green herb pieces visible, adding specks of green color. They are placed together on a white plate, with some fresh green leafy herbs scattered around for garnish. The background and surface under the plate have a white marbled texture that looks clean and bright, emphasizing the rich color of the meatballs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe plays a crucial role, so grabbing fresh and high-quality items really makes a difference. The combination of meat, vegetables, and cheese creates a perfect flavor and texture harmony – plus, cooking the spinach first enhances the final taste without sogginess.

Spinach Garlic Meatballs, healthy spinach meatballs, cheesy spinach meatballs, easy garlic meatballs, savory meatball recipes - Flat lay of fresh raw ground beef mound, a vibrant bunch of fresh spinach leaves, four peeled garlic cloves, one small whole white onion, one large uncracked brown egg, a small white ceramic bowl with golden brown breadcrumbs, a small white ceramic bowl filled with grated Parmesan cheese, several chilled mozzarella cubes, a small white ceramic bowl with mixed Italian seasoning herbs, a small white ceramic bowl with bright red pepper flakes, and a few sprigs of fresh green parsley, all arranged symmetrically and naturally on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean meat for a healthier option; turkey keeps the meatballs tender and lighter.
  • Fresh Spinach: Sauté it first to get rid of excess moisture and bring out a deeper, nuttier flavor.
  • Garlic: Minced fresh garlic provides a punch of aroma and taste that’s unbeatable.
  • Onion (optional): Adds sweetness and depth if you like a little extra texture.
  • Egg: Acts as the binder so your meatballs hold together nicely without falling apart.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use traditional, oats, or almond flour based on preference; they help soak up moisture and keep meatballs tender.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory umami and subtle nuttiness to the mix.
  • Mozzarella Cubes: Use chilled, low-moisture mozzarella to avoid cheese leaking during cooking.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that bring balance and warmth.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A lovely kick for those who like a bit of heat.
  • Chopped Parsley (optional): Adds fresh color and brightness to finish.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love customizing this Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe depending on my mood or what I have in the fridge. Don’t be shy about swapping out ingredients or adding extra spices—you’ll be surprised how flexible this recipe is.

  • Meat Variation: I often use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option that still feels hearty.
  • Cheese Swap: If mozzarella’s not your fave, try pepper jack for a spicy twist or a sharp cheddar for deeper flavor.
  • Herb Boost: Adding fresh basil or oregano alongside Italian seasoning gives it a fragrant, garden-fresh lift.
  • Heat Lovers: Toss in extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne if you want to turn up the spice level.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Spinach and Garlic for Maximum Flavor

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and tossing in the fresh spinach and minced garlic. Cook them until the spinach is wilted — about 3 to 4 minutes. This step really wakes up the garlic and gives the spinach a lovely, concentrated flavor. Let it cool a bit, then chop finely. Trust me, this little prep step prevents soggy meatballs and guarantees every bite sings with flavor.

Step 2: Mix Meatball Ingredients Gently

In a large bowl, combine your ground meat, sautéed spinach and garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and seasonings. Stir everything together gently — you want the ingredients to come together, but don’t overmix or your meatballs can get tough. I usually use my hands for this part because it’s easier to feel when the mix is just right.

Step 3: Form Meatballs Around Mozzarella Cubes

Here’s the fun part! Take a chilled mozzarella cube and wrap the meat mixture around it, pressing gently to seal completely. This makes sure the cheesy center stays inside when you cook them, giving you that ooey-gooey surprise. Try to make each meatball roughly the same size for even cooking.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection – Bake or Pan-Sear

You have two solid options here. Bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes until golden and cooked through. Or, heat some oil in a pan and sear them over medium-high heat—about 6 to 8 minutes per side. Baking is hands-off and neat, but pan-searing gives a gorgeous crust and those caramelized edges that I can’t resist.

Step 5: Optional Step – Simmer in Marinara

If you want to take these meatballs next-level, simmer them gently in warm marinara sauce for 5 to 10 minutes after cooking. This adds moisture and layers of flavor that are downright addictive. I do this often when serving them as a main dish but skip it if they’re a party appetizer.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

After cooking, let your meatballs rest for five minutes. This may seem small, but it makes a big difference for juiciness and helps the cheese center set just right, so it doesn’t run out the second you bite in.

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Pro Tips for Making Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe

  • Use Chilled Mozzarella: I learned this the hard way—the cheese melts and leaks if not chilled, so pop the cubes in the fridge before assembling.
  • Don’t Overmix the Meat: A light hand keeps meatballs tender and juicy, so mix just until combined.
  • Sauté Spinach to Avoid Sogginess: Cooking out moisture upfront prevents watery meatballs and enhances flavor.
  • Rest Meatballs Before Serving: Letting them sit for a few minutes locks in juices and keeps cheese gooey but contained.

How to Serve Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe

Spinach Garlic Meatballs, healthy spinach meatballs, cheesy spinach meatballs, easy garlic meatballs, savory meatball recipes - The image shows a close-up of several golden-brown meatballs, each with a slightly crispy and charred outside. One meatball is cut open in front, revealing a soft inside with green leafy herbs mixed in. The meatballs sit on a white round plate with a shiny layer of red sauce and small green leaves scattered around, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually finish these meatballs with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan on top for that bright green pop and salty edge. Sometimes, if I’m feeling fancy, a little drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a perfect finishing touch.

Side Dishes

These meatballs go great with a simple side of spaghetti or zucchini noodles if you’re watching carbs. For a low-key dinner, a fresh green salad or roasted veggies balance the richness nicely. I’ve also enjoyed them piled on a crusty garlic bread for an indulgent weekend treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve these meatballs skewered with toothpicks on a platter with little cups of marinara sauce for dipping. I once made mini sliders using soft rolls and a dollop of pesto instead of sauce—that was a huge hit! Getting creative with presentation can really elevate this simple dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge; they last nicely for up to 4 days. If anything, the flavors deepen after a day, making leftovers even better—I recommend reheating gently to keep them moist and tender.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, these meatballs freeze beautifully. I flash freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag so none stick together. They’ll keep for up to 3 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Whenever I reheat leftovers, I prefer warming them gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep them juicy. The microwave works, too, but be sure to cover the meatballs to trap steam and avoid drying out.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen spinach in the Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe?

    Yes, frozen spinach works, but be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding it to the meat mixture. This keeps the meatballs from becoming watery or falling apart.

  2. What’s the best way to prevent mozzarella from leaking out?

    Using chilled low-moisture mozzarella cubes helps maintain their shape during cooking. Also, wrapping the meat tightly around the cheese to fully seal it is key. Avoid holes or cracks in the meatball shell.

  3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

    Absolutely! Swap traditional breadcrumbs for almond flour, crushed gluten-free crackers, or oats to keep things gluten-free without sacrificing texture.

  4. Are there tips for making the meatballs more tender?

    Avoid overmixing the ingredients, and don’t pack the meatballs too tightly when shaping them. The egg and breadcrumbs help keep things tender and moist.

  5. Can I skip the marinara sauce?

    Definitely! The meatballs are flavorful and juicy on their own. Marinara is an optional boost if you want to serve them with sauce or make them saucier for pasta dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort meals, and I bet once you try it, it will be for you, too. The way the melty mozzarella meets fresh spinach and savory meat feels so indulgent yet satisfying and good for you. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that makes weeknight dinners feel special without needing a ton of fuss. So grab your skillet or baking sheet and get started—I’m excited for you to discover your new favorite meatball recipe!

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Spinach Garlic Meatballs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 10 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Lactose
Print Recipe

Description

Delicious spinach garlic meatballs featuring a flavorful combination of ground beef or turkey, sautéed spinach, garlic, and gooey mozzarella cheese inside. These meatballs can be baked or pan-seared and optionally simmered in marinara sauce for a comforting meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey (lean turkey can be used as a substitute)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (can use oats or almond flour)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz low-moisture mozzarella cubes, chilled
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Optional Enhancements

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes for heat
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley for freshness

Instructions

  1. Sauté Spinach and Garlic: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the fresh spinach and minced garlic until the spinach is wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool, then finely chop.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, chopped sautéed spinach, and optional onion and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently until just mixed to avoid tough meatballs.
  3. Form Meatballs: Take a portion of the meat mixture and encase a chilled mozzarella cube completely within each meatball, ensuring the cheese is sealed inside.
  4. Cook Meatballs: Choose your preferred cooking method: bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, or pan-sear in oil over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
  5. Simmer in Sauce (Optional): For extra flavor, gently simmer the cooked meatballs in warm marinara sauce for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  6. Rest Meatballs: Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help retain juiciness and enhance flavor before serving.

Notes

  • Use chilled mozzarella cubes to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking.
  • Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
  • Spinach can be finely chopped after sautéing for better incorporation.
  • Optional simmering in marinara adds moisture and flavor but can be skipped if preferred.
  • Breadcrumbs can be replaced with oats or almond flour for dietary preferences.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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