Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb Ground Beef or Turkey (lean turkey can be used as a substitute)
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach (sautéed to enhance flavor)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 small Onion (optional, finely chopped)
- 1 large Egg
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (can use oats or almond flour)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 8 oz Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cubes (use chilled to avoid leaks)
- 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
- Sauté Spinach and Garlic: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the fresh spinach along with minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly, then finely chop the mixture.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and the cooled, chopped spinach and garlic. Stir gently until all ingredients are just mixed to avoid toughening the meat.
- Form Meatballs with Mozzarella: Take portions of the meat mixture and encase chilled mozzarella cubes fully within the meat, making sure each meatball is sealed well around the cheese to prevent leakage during cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs: Choose your preferred cooking method: either bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or pan-sear them in a little oil over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown.
- Simmer in Marinara (Optional): For extra flavor, you can simmer the cooked meatballs in warm marinara sauce for 5-10 minutes before serving to infuse them with additional richness.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help retain their juiciness and allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use chilled mozzarella cubes to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Spinach should be sautéed and cooled before mixing to reduce moisture and enhance flavor.
- Optional: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick and chopped parsley for freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American