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### Instructions
#### 1. **Prepare the Meatball Mixture**:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the **ground beef**, **chopped spinach**, **breadcrumbs**, **Parmesan cheese**, **egg**, **garlic**, **oregano**, **basil**, **salt**, and **pepper**.
– Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it is fully combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
#### 2. **Form the Meatballs**:
– With your hands, scoop out a small portion of the meat mixture (about 1.5 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball.
– Gently press your thumb into the center of the ball to create a small indent. Place a tablespoon of **shredded mozzarella** into the center, then carefully seal the meat around the cheese to fully enclose the mozzarella in the middle. Roll the ball gently to ensure it holds its shape.
#### 3. **Cook the Meatballs**:
– Heat **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about **6-8 minutes per side**, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 160°F).
– Use tongs to flip the meatballs gently, ensuring they brown evenly on all sides.
#### 4. **Optional Step – Simmer in Tomato Sauce**:
– Once the meatballs are browned and cooked through, you can simmer them in **marinara sauce** to add even more flavor. Pour the sauce into the skillet and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for **10-15 minutes** on low heat. This will allow the meatballs to absorb the sauce and become even juicier.
– If you don’t want to simmer in sauce, you can also serve the meatballs as-is with a side of marinara for dipping.
#### 5. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet. Serve them with your favorite pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
– Garnish with fresh **basil** and additional **Parmesan cheese** if desired.
### Tips for the Perfect Spinach Garlic Meatballs
– **Use Fresh Spinach**: Fresh spinach holds up better than frozen spinach in meatballs, as it adds texture and avoids releasing too much moisture. Make sure to chop it finely before mixing it into the meat.
– **Don’t Overfill the Meatballs**: While it’s tempting to load up the meatballs with a lot of cheese, be sure to leave enough meat surrounding the mozzarella so it doesn’t melt out while cooking.
– **Bake Instead of Frying**: If you prefer a less oily option, you can bake the meatballs. Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**, place the meatballs on a baking sheet, and bake for **20-25 minutes** until golden brown and cooked through.
– **Freezing for Later**: These meatballs freeze wonderfully! After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag to store in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can reheat them in the microwave or simmer them in sauce when you’re ready to serve.
### Why This Recipe Works
– **Cheese Stuffing**: The gooey, melted mozzarella center is a game-changer. As the meatballs cook, the cheese becomes perfectly melted and creates a rich, cheesy surprise that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the meat and garlic.
– **Flavorful Spinach**: The spinach is finely chopped and incorporated directly into the meatball mixture, adding a fresh, slightly earthy flavor. Not only does this help to balance out the richness of the meat, but it also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.
– **Italian Herbs**: The blend of **oregano**, **basil**, and **garlic** enhances the overall flavor of the meatballs and adds an authentic Italian taste that makes this dish feel like a comforting family classic.
### Serving Suggestions
– **With Pasta**: Serve these cheesy, spinach-filled meatballs over a bed of spaghetti, rigatoni, or your favorite pasta. Top with marinara sauce and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
– **On a Sub Roll**: For a fun twist, serve the meatballs on a sub roll, topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a cheesy meatball sub.
– **As an Appetizer**: Make smaller meatballs and serve them with toothpicks alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping at your next party or gathering.
### Conclusion: A Flavorful, Cheesy Twist on Classic Meatballs
**Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella** are the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and healthy. They combine the goodness of lean meat, spinach, and melted mozzarella in a way that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you enjoy them as part of a hearty meal, a quick snack, or a fun appetizer, these meatballs will leave you and your guests craving more.
Give this recipe a try the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting, cheesy, and surprisingly nutritious meal. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how easily it comes together — and how delicious it is!
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