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Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Meatballs with Spinach and Garlic

  • Author: Chef Sara

Description

These tender turkey meatballs, packed with the flavors of spinach, garlic, and Italian spices, hide a delightful surprise—gooey melted mozzarella in the center! Perfect as a main dish with pasta or as a snack dipped in marinara, they’re sure to be a hit.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1pound ground turkey1 cupfresh spinach, chopped2cloves garlic, minced1/2 cupbreadcrumbs (whole wheat or regular)1/4 cupgrated Parmesan cheese1large egg1 teaspoonItalian seasoning1/2 teaspoonsalt1/4 teaspoonblack pepper12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 1 cupfresh spinach, chopped2cloves garlic, minced1/2 cupbreadcrumbs (whole wheat or regular)1/4 cupgrated Parmesan cheese1large egg1 teaspoonItalian seasoning1/2 teaspoonsalt1/4 teaspoonblack pepper12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 2cloves garlic, minced1/2 cupbreadcrumbs (whole wheat or regular)1/4 cupgrated Parmesan cheese1large egg1 teaspoonItalian seasoning1/2 teaspoonsalt1/4 teaspoonblack pepper12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 1/2 cupbreadcrumbs (whole wheat or regular)1/4 cupgrated Parmesan cheese1large egg1 teaspoonItalian seasoning1/2 teaspoonsalt1/4 teaspoonblack pepper12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 1/4 cupgrated Parmesan cheese1large egg1 teaspoonItalian seasoning1/2 teaspoonsalt1/4 teaspoonblack pepper12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 1large egg1 teaspoonItalian seasoning1/2 teaspoonsalt1/4 teaspoonblack pepper12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 1 teaspoonItalian seasoning1/2 teaspoonsalt1/4 teaspoonblack pepper12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 1/2 teaspoonsalt1/4 teaspoonblack pepper12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 1/4 teaspoonblack pepper12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 12small mozzarella balls (or1 cupmozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)
  • 1 tablespoonolive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. 1️⃣Prepare the Meatball Mixture:In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. 2️⃣Form the Meatballs:Take about 2 tablespoons of the turkey mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a mozzarella ball or cube in the center and carefully wrap the turkey mixture around it, rolling it into a ball to completely enclose the cheese. Repeat with the remaining mixture and mozzarella.3️⃣Cook the Meatballs:Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned all over.4️⃣Bake to Perfection:Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C).5️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Serve the meatballs hot, paired with your favorite pasta, smothered in marinara sauce, or as a stand-alone snack. Watch your guests enjoy the cheesy surprise inside!
  3. 3️⃣Cook the Meatballs:Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned all over.4️⃣Bake to Perfection:Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C).5️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Serve the meatballs hot, paired with your favorite pasta, smothered in marinara sauce, or as a stand-alone snack. Watch your guests enjoy the cheesy surprise inside!
  4. 4️⃣Bake to Perfection:Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. 5️⃣Serve and Enjoy:Serve the meatballs hot, paired with your favorite pasta, smothered in marinara sauce, or as a stand-alone snack. Watch your guests enjoy the cheesy surprise inside!

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip:Form the meatballs and freeze them raw for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking, or cook directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.Gluten-Free Option:Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.Serving Suggestion:Pair with zoodles for a low-carb meal or a side salad for a lighter option.
Gluten-Free Option:Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.Serving Suggestion:Pair with zoodles for a low-carb meal or a side salad for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestion:Pair with zoodles for a low-carb meal or a side salad for a lighter option.