Cheesy Stuffed Italian Meatballs (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Meatball Base
01 -
Ground beef (1 pound, or mix of beef and pork)
02 -
Fresh spinach (1 cup, finely chopped)
03 -
Garlic cloves (3, minced)
04 -
Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup)
05 -
Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated)
06 -
Large egg (1)
07 -
Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
08 -
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
09 -
Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon)
→ Filling and Cooking
10 -
Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, cut into small cubes)
11 -
Olive oil (2 tablespoons, for cooking)
→ Optional Serving Suggestions
12 -
Marinara sauce (for dipping)
13 -
Extra Parmesan cheese
14 -
Fresh basil (for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
02 -
Take 1-2 tablespoons of meat mixture and flatten in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center. Carefully wrap the meat around the cheese, sealing completely. Roll into a ball. Repeat with remaining meat and cheese.
03 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Cook 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
04 -
Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Optional: Serve over pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.
# Notes:
01 -
Versatile dish - can be served as appetizer, main course, or side
02 -
Freezes well for make-ahead meals
03 -
Can use mix of beef and pork for added flavor