Can I freeze spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella?

Yes, these meatballs stuffed with mozzarella cheese freeze well cooked or uncooked for up to three months.

Can I make turkey meatballs stuffed with mozzarella cheese instead of beef?

Absolutely. Turkey creates a lighter spinach garlic meatballs recipe while keeping the cheesy center.

What sauce pairs best with meatballs with spinach and cheese?

Classic marinara works beautifully, but Alfredo or pesto also complement spinach stuffed meatballs.

How do I stop cheese from leaking out?

Seal the mozzarella completely and chill the stuffed meatballs before baking.

Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella 2026

Description

Juicy, flavorful meatballs packed with fresh spinach, garlic, and herbs, each stuffed with a gooey mozzarella center. These cheesy stuffed meatballs are perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving over pasta with marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or turkey / Italian sausage)
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped (or ½ cup thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry)
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes (about 12–14 cubes)

For Serving (Optional):

2 cups marinara sauce
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Extra grated Parmesan

Instructions

📝 Instructions: Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, chopped spinach, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 2: Stuff the Meatballs

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and flatten in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and carefully wrap the meat around it, sealing completely. Roll into a ball.

Repeat with remaining mixture and place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C for poultry or 160°F / 71°C for beef).

For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

Step 4: Serve

Warm marinara sauce in a saucepan. Toss baked meatballs in sauce or spoon sauce over them. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan. Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or as an appetizer.

Notes

Prevent Cheese Leaks: Make sure mozzarella is fully sealed inside the meat. Chilling the formed meatballs for 15 minutes helps them hold shape.
Make It Lighter: Use ground turkey and part-skim mozzarella for a leaner option.
Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Freezer Friendly: Freeze raw or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course / Appetizer
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Italian-American