Creamy Spinach Stuffed Meatballs (Oven Baked)

🧀 Creamy Spinach Stuffed Meatballs (Oven Baked)

📖 Description

Juicy, tender meatballs baked until golden and smothered in a creamy garlic-parmesan sauce with wilted spinach. The outside gets lightly crisp and cheesy, while the inside stays moist and flavorful. Great served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

🛒 Ingredients

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or mix of beef & pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping or stuffing)

For the creamy spinach sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt & pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, and spices.
3. Form balls: Roll into golf ball-sized meatballs. Optionally stuff with mozzarella.
4. Bake: Place on a lined tray and bake for 18–20 minutes until browned.
5. Make sauce:
   • Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat
   • Add garlic and sauté 1 minute
   • Stir in cream and broth
   • Add parmesan and simmer until slightly thickened
6. Add spinach: Stir until wilted.
7. Combine: Add baked meatballs to the sauce and spoon sauce over them.
8. Optional broil: Top with extra cheese and broil 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I use ground chicken or turkey?
Yes, just add a bit more seasoning and maybe a tablespoon of olive oil to keep them moist.

Q: How do I keep meatballs from drying out?
Don’t overmix the meat and avoid overbaking. The sauce also helps keep them juicy.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prep the meatballs and sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

Q: What can I serve this with?

• Pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
• Mashed potatoes
• Rice
• Garlic bread

Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes—freeze cooked meatballs separately or with sauce for up to 2 months.