Looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? These Easy Spinach & Garlic Meatballs are the answer. Juicy and filled with creamy mozzarella, they’re baked in marinara sauce for a cozy, Italian-inspired dish that fits into any dinner routine. Fresh spinach adds a nutritious touch, while garlic and herbs infuse every bite with savory warmth. Whether served over pasta, tucked into a hoagie, or enjoyed solo, these meatballs are pure comfort made simple.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These meatballs strike the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. The garlicky meat is tender and rich, while a cube of mozzarella in the center melts into gooey perfection as it bakes. Spinach brings brightness and a subtle earthiness, blending in seamlessly for a nutrient boost.
No frying is required. A quick pan sear locks in flavor before the meatballs finish cooking in the oven. This method is efficient, cleaner than stovetop-only versions, and delivers fantastic results every time.
They’re perfect for casual dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. The mix of flavor, texture, and ease makes this a recipe worth repeating.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s go over each ingredient and how it contributes to the final dish:
Ground beef or turkey (1 lb)
The foundation of the meatballs. Beef provides bold flavor, while turkey offers a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
Fresh spinach, chopped (1 cup)
Chopped spinach blends into the meat beautifully, offering moisture and nutrients. Avoid frozen spinach to prevent excess water.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
Garlic delivers that deep, savory base that defines this recipe. Freshly minced is best for full flavor.
Parmesan cheese, grated (½ cup)
Adds a salty, nutty flavor and enhances the texture. Freshly grated Parmesan works best here.
Mozzarella cheese, cubed (1 cup)
These cubes are tucked inside each meatball, creating a melted, cheesy surprise when cooked.
Breadcrumbs (½ cup)
Breadcrumbs help absorb moisture and bind the meat together. They also give the meatballs their classic texture.
Egg (1 large)
Acts as a binder to keep everything together while baking.
Italian seasoning (1 tsp)
This blend of herbs brings in those classic Italian notes that pair so well with garlic and marinara.
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Adds depth and helps balance the flavors.
Marinara sauce (2 cups)
A good marinara creates a rich base for baking and adds extra moisture and acidity to balance the richness of the meat.
How to Make Easy Spinach & Garlic Meatballs
Making these meatballs is straightforward and rewarding. First, combine all the main ingredients in a bowl—meat, spinach, garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Mix gently until everything is just combined.
Next, shape the mixture into small patties, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and form each into a round ball. This ensures the cheese stays neatly tucked inside.
Brown the meatballs in a skillet for added flavor and structure, then arrange them in a baking dish with marinara sauce. Bake until cooked through, and let them rest before serving so the cheese stays melty without spilling out.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s ready when you are.
Step 2: Mix your ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground meat, 1 cup chopped fresh spinach, 2 minced garlic cloves, ½ cup grated Parmesan, ½ cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Form and fill the meatballs
Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture into your palm, flatten it slightly, and place a cube of mozzarella in the middle. Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll it into a ball, making sure it’s well sealed.
Step 4: Repeat the process
Continue forming meatballs until you’ve used up all the meat mixture. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking.
Step 5: Brown the meatballs
Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning to brown each side lightly.
Step 6: Assemble in a baking dish
Spread 2 cups of marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the browned meatballs over the sauce.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. For food safety, check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for beef or 165°F for turkey.
Step 8: Let them rest
After baking, allow the meatballs to cool for 5 minutes before serving so the cheese has time to set slightly.
Helpful Tips
Avoid overmixing the meat, which can make the meatballs dense. Always use fresh spinach and chop it finely to distribute it evenly throughout the mixture. Seal the mozzarella tightly inside each meatball to keep it from leaking during baking. Browning before baking adds flavor and helps the meatballs hold their shape, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
Details
Flavor: Rich, savory, and slightly tangy
Texture: Crisp on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside
Occasion: Great for family dinners, meal prepping, or sharing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Notes (Variations and Substitutions)
Swap ground beef with ground chicken or a plant-based meat substitute for a different take. Add a bit of crushed red pepper for heat. Use lactose-free cheese for a dairy-sensitive version. You can also roll them smaller for appetizer-sized bites or larger for hearty sandwich fillings.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw spinach in meatballs?
Yes, raw spinach is ideal. It blends easily and cooks down perfectly in the oven.
Which meat is best for this recipe?
Ground beef offers more flavor, but ground turkey provides a leaner, lighter option.
How can I prevent soggy meatballs?
Use only fresh spinach and chop it finely. Breadcrumbs help soak up extra moisture, and browning before baking helps lock everything in.
Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
Yes. These meatballs are meant to be baked. Pan searing is optional but adds flavor and texture.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. To freeze, place the uncooked or cooked meatballs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.
Print
Easy Spinach & Garlic Meatballs | Stuffed, Juicy & Oven-Baked Comfort
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy meatballs made with garlic, fresh spinach, and a melty mozzarella center, baked in marinara sauce for a perfect comfort meal.
Ingredients
1 lb Ground beef or turkey
1 cup Fresh spinach, chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup Mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
1 large Egg
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups Marinara sauce
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, combine meat, spinach, garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasoning.
3. Flatten a portion, place a mozzarella cube inside, and roll into a sealed meatball.
4. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.
5. Brown the meatballs in a skillet for 6–8 minutes.
6. Pour marinara into a baking dish and add the meatballs.
7. Cover and bake for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked.
8. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use fresh spinach for best texture.
Do not overmix the meat.
Seal the cheese inside well to avoid leaks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 27g
Conclusion
These Easy Spinach & Garlic Meatballs are a fantastic mix of flavor, nutrition, and ease. The creamy mozzarella center and herb-infused meat make each bite something to look forward to. With simple prep, no frying, and freezer-friendly options, this recipe is a weeknight dinner staple waiting to happen. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort.