When comfort food meets creativity, you get these Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella — juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether served over pasta, as a party appetizer, or baked into a casserole, these meatballs are a next-level upgrade to your usual dinner routine.
Thanks to the infusion of spinach and garlic, not only do these meatballs taste incredible, but they also bring nutritional benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting and heart-healthy properties — as highlighted in this Cleveland Clinic article on garlic’s health benefits. Combined with spinach, a nutrient powerhouse rich in iron and fiber, you’re not just indulging — you’re fueling your body.
And the cheesy center? Not just any mozzarella will do. Choose the right kind to avoid sogginess and maximize melt. Here’s a helpful guide from Bon Appétit on the best mozzarella for cooking to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly gooey every time.
Garlic isn’t just delicious — it’s also a powerhouse of health benefits. According to the Cleveland Clinic, garlic has antioxidant and heart-healthy properties that make it a smart addition to any savory recipe. And when you’re choosing cheese, it’s important to go for low-moisture mozzarella to keep the center gooey, not soggy — this guide by Bon Appétit breaks down the best mozzarella options for cooking.
If you’re already hooked on cheesy, stuffed bites, you’ll also love these Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites — another crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with marinara or garlic cream sauce.
🧾 What Makes These Meatballs So Special?
These aren’t your average meatballs. They’re:
- Juicy and moist thanks to the spinach and garlic blend
- Stuffed with melty mozzarella cubes
- Baked, fried, or air-fried for customizable crisp
- Versatile enough to serve over pasta, in sandwiches, or on their own
- Perfect for meal prep or freezing
Looking for more cozy, flavor-packed comfort food? Check out this ultra-creamy Lasagna Soup — it has all the flavors of your favorite casserole in one easy bowl.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make your spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella:
To create the perfect spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella, it’s essential to use ingredients that bring both flavor and texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of savory herbs, rich cheeses, and the juiciness of perfectly seasoned meat.
Below is a breakdown of the essential components and how they work together to create the ultimate cheesy meatball experience.
🥩 Meat
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey – Choose lean ground meat (80–90%) for a balance of flavor and moisture. Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative.
- Optional: Combine half pork and half beef for extra juiciness.
🌱 Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 cup spinach – Use fresh (sautéed and chopped) or frozen (thawed and squeezed dry). Spinach adds moisture, fiber, and a nutritional boost.
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced – A key flavor component; fresh is best, but paste or powder can work in a pinch.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or basil – Optional, but it adds brightness and color.
Tip: Properly draining spinach is critical to avoid watery meatballs.
🧂 Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt + ½ tsp black pepper – Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme brings classic flavor.
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes – Optional for a little heat.
- ½ tsp onion powder – For extra depth.
🧀 Cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella, cut into ½-inch cubes – Low-moisture mozzarella is ideal to avoid soggy centers. Avoid fresh mozzarella unless you dry it thoroughly.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional) – Adds sharpness and enhances the umami.
🥚 Binders
- 1 egg – Acts as a binder, holding the meatballs together.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs – Use plain or Italian-style. For gluten-free, sub with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
These ingredients combine to form juicy meatballs with a cheesy core, perfectly seasoned and balanced in texture. Whether you’re baking, air frying, or pan-frying, starting with the right components ensures flavor-packed results every time.
Don’t be afraid to tweak the seasoning or try different herbs to match your personal taste — the base recipe is both forgiving and flexible!
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation
Making spinach garlic meatballs stuffed with mozzarella may look gourmet, but it’s a simple, rewarding process anyone can master. With just a bit of prep and attention to detail, you’ll end up with juicy meatballs that ooze cheesy goodness from the center.
Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to get you there:
🥬 1. Prep the Spinach
Whether using frozen or fresh spinach, the key is to remove as much moisture as possible.
- If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water using a cheesecloth or paper towel.
- If using fresh spinach, sauté it briefly in a skillet with a tiny bit of oil until wilted. Let it cool, then chop finely and squeeze out moisture.
Too much moisture from spinach can make the meatballs fall apart or steam instead of brown.
🧂 2. Combine the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- Prepared spinach
- 2–3 cloves minced garlic
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan, pinch of red pepper flakes
Gently mix the ingredients with your hands or a spatula. Be careful not to overwork the meat, which can make the meatballs tough.
🧀 3. Stuff with Mozzarella
Now for the fun part: adding that gooey mozzarella center.
- Cut low-moisture mozzarella into ½-inch cubes.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm.
- Place a cube of mozzarella in the center.
- Fold the meat around the cheese, sealing it completely so the cheese doesn’t leak during cooking.
- Roll into a smooth ball.
Make sure the cheese is fully sealed to keep it from oozing out while baking or frying.
🧊 4. Chill the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended)
- Place formed meatballs on a tray and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes.
- This helps them hold their shape during cooking — especially useful for pan-frying or air-frying.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your stuffed meatballs are ready to bake, fry, or air fry. This prep method ensures juicy meatballs, a flavorful filling, and the perfect cheesy center every time.
🔥 Cooking Methods: Choose Your Style
Oven-Baked (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden and cooked through
Air Fryer (Crisp and Quick)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F
- Air fry for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway
- Great option for a small batch and extra crispiness
Pan-Fried (Crispiest, but Richer)
- Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high
- Cook meatballs in batches, turning until all sides are browned
- Finish in oven if needed
Looking for more air fryer magic? Try these Easy Crab Rangoon Bombs — perfect for appetizers or snacking.
🍝 Sauce Pairing Ideas
These meatballs are great on their own but shine with the right sauce:
- Classic Marinara – Try this simple homemade marinara sauce for a fresh, bright tomato base
- Garlic Cream Sauce – For a rich, indulgent twist
- Spicy Arrabbiata – Adds a kick to the cheesy filling
- Basil Pesto – For a herby, nutty flavor profile
For a homemade touch, check out this Homemade Marinara Sauce — simple and delicious.
🧀 Serving Suggestions
Serve your spinach garlic mozzarella meatballs in fun and delicious ways:
- Over spaghetti or zucchini noodles
- In a sub sandwich topped with marinara and melted cheese
- As a standalone appetizer with toothpicks and dipping sauce
- With mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a full meal
Want more cozy sides? These Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes make the perfect match.
🔁 Variations to Try
Customize your meatballs with these fun ideas:
- Use ground chicken or pork instead of beef or turkey
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean vibe
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a smokier flavor
- Make them keto-friendly by using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
These meatballs are perfect for meal prep and freezing:
- To store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- To freeze: Flash freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months
- To reheat:
- Oven: 350°F for 10–15 min
- Air fryer: 375°F for 5–6 min
- Microwave: 1–2 minutes (note: less crispy)
🌀 Customization Ideas
- Swap ground beef for ground chicken or pork
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or chopped basil to the meat mix
- Use provolone or gouda instead of mozzarella
- Make it gluten-free with almond flour instead of breadcrumbs
If you’re into bold flavors, you’ll also love these Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs — another handheld cheesy comfort food!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wet spinach: Always squeeze out moisture to prevent soggy meatballs
- Overmixing the meat: This leads to tough, dry texture
- Not sealing the cheese inside fully: Causes mozzarella to leak during cooking
- Using fresh mozzarella: Stick to low-moisture for best melt and structure
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Chill meatball mix for 10–15 minutes before shaping
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform size
- Brush tops with olive oil before baking for color and crisp
- Let meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving so cheese doesn’t ooze out too quickly
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw and squeeze it completely dry before mixing.
What’s the best mozzarella to use?
Use low-moisture mozzarella cubes. They melt well without making the meatballs soggy.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep them up to 24 hours ahead or freeze for later use.
Do I need to serve them with sauce?
Not necessarily! They’re flavorful on their own but pair well with marinara or pesto.
Are these meatballs good for meal prep?
Yes! They reheat beautifully and can be part of a low-carb or high-protein meal plan.
🍽️ Final Thoughts
Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella are the kind of recipe that combines comfort, creativity, and nutrition in one delicious bite. They’re packed with flavor, customizable to your dietary needs, and easy to make for weeknights or special occasions.
Whether you’re baking a batch for the family or meal prepping for the week, these cheesy, garlicky, spinach-infused meatballs will become a regular on your menu — and a favorite on your table.
Looking for more one-dish comfort meals? Don’t miss this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup — it’s hearty, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying.