Spinach Garlic Mozzarella Meatballs (Print)

Juicy meatballs with wilted spinach and garlic, stuffed with melty mozzarella centers and simmered in rich marinara sauce.

# Ingredients:

→ Spinach Preparation

01 - 225 grams fresh baby spinach
02 - 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
03 - 15-30 millilitres olive oil

→ Meatball Mixture

04 - 450 grams ground beef
05 - 450 grams ground pork
06 - 240 grams bread crumbs
07 - 3 large eggs
08 - 30 millilitres milk
09 - 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
10 - 50 grams Parmesan cheese, finely grated
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
12 - 30 millilitres olive oil
13 - 150 grams mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
14 - 680 grams marinara sauce

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add fresh baby spinach and toss until coated, allowing it to wilt for several minutes.
02 - Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
03 - Transfer the wilted spinach and garlic mixture to a chopping board, finely chop, and set aside to cool completely.
04 - Preheat oven to 175°C. Line a baking tray or have an ovenproof skillet ready.
05 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, eggs, milk, chopped garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and the cooled spinach mixture. Mix gently until evenly incorporated.
06 - Shape the meat mixture into even balls. Press a small cube of mozzarella into the centre of each, rolling to fully enclose the cheese.
07 - Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs on all sides until golden brown and a firm crust forms.
08 - Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the skillet. Arrange the browned meatballs atop the sauce.
09 - Cover the skillet tightly with foil and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked and reach an internal temperature of 74°C.
10 - Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Pair with pasta or bread as preferred.

# Notes:

01 - The mozzarella creates a delicious melted center when the meatballs are cut open.

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