– **Title**: Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Meatballs with Spinach and Garlic
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara sauce (for serving)
– Olive oil (for cooking)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
3. Take a small amount of the turkey mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and mold the turkey mixture around it, forming a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
4. Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. They will finish cooking in the oven.
5. Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them to a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your mozzarella-stuffed turkey meatballs with spinach and garlic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat keeps the meatballs moist and healthy. If you prefer a juicier option, ground chicken or beef can be used instead. I like ground turkey for its mild flavor that lets other ingredients shine!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrition and a nice pop of color. You can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well. Kale also works if you’re looking for a sturdier green!
Mozzarella Cheese: I recommend whole milk mozzarella for creaminess. If you can’t find it, feel free to substitute with cheddar or Monterey Jack. Just be aware, the flavor will differ slightly.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs for classic flavor. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers can be great options. I often go for panko breadcrumbs as they give a nice crunch!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used (1/4 teaspoon for each clove). But fresh has a depth that just can’t be beat!
How Can You Make Sure Your Meatballs Are Juicy and Full of Flavor?
The trick to juicy meatballs lies in mixing your ingredients just right. Over mixing can lead to dense meatballs. Here’s how you can do it:
- Combine your ingredients gently. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until just combined.
- Form meatballs that are evenly sized. This way, they cook uniformly—aim for about 1.5 inches.
- When you stuff the mozzarella, make sure it’s a small chunk. Too much may cause it to ooze out during cooking.
After frying, popping them in the oven helps keep them moist while they finish cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re perfectly done!
How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Meatballs with Spinach and Garlic?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then an additional 20-25 minutes to cook. You’ll have warm, cheesy, and flavorful meatballs ready in about 35-40 minutes total—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and warm for baking those delicious meatballs later on.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (or a spoon, if you prefer) to mix everything together until it’s all well combined—don’t be shy, get in there!
3. Form the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to form the mixture into meatballs! Take a scoop of the mixture and roll it into a ball about 1.5 inches in diameter. Make sure to take a small piece of mozzarella cheese and tuck it inside the meatball so that it’s stuffed with cheesy goodness. Repeat this with the rest of the mixture.
4. Sear the Meatballs:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Sear the meatballs for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step gives them a nice crust!
5. Bake the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are nicely browned, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake them for 15-20 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden and juicy inside!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Take the skillet out of the oven and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your mozzarella-stuffed turkey meatballs are ready to enjoy! Serve them with marinara sauce, over spaghetti, or simply on their own. Dig in and savor every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Lean Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Lean ground turkey works well, but be mindful that it can be a bit drier. To counter this, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra egg to keep the meatballs moist and tender.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
You can substitute mozzarella with other melty cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even cheddar for a different flavor! Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well and complements the turkey without overpowering it.
How to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the meatballs up to the baking stage, place them on a baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
