Spinach Garlic Turkey Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese
These tender turkey meatballs are packed with sautéed spinach, garlic, fresh herbs, and filled with or topped with melty mozzarella cheese. They’re oven-baked for a healthier touch but still juicy and full of Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
⏱️ Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping or stuffing)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
1 egg
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional: pinch of chili flakes for heat
Optional for Stuffed Version:
18–20 small cubes of mozzarella (about 1/2 inch cubes)
For Serving (Optional):
Marinara sauce or tzatziki
Fresh basil or extra parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it.
2. Sauté Spinach & Garlic (Optional but adds flavor):
In a skillet, sauté garlic in a touch of olive oil, then add chopped spinach. Cook until wilted (1–2 mins). Let cool slightly.
3. Mix Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed spinach and garlic, shredded mozzarella, breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
4. Shape Meatballs:
Form into 1.5-inch balls.
Optional stuffed version: Flatten each ball, press in a cube of mozzarella, and seal it inside.
5. Bake:
Place meatballs on the baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden.
6. (Optional) Broil with Cheese:
Sprinkle with extra mozzarella and broil for 1–2 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Serve:
Serve with warm marinara sauce, tzatziki, or tucked in wraps, over pasta, or in bowls.
Notes & Tips
Cheese options: Mozzarella works best, but provolone or feta can be used.
Make ahead: Store uncooked meatballs in the fridge for 1 day or freeze raw.
Bake vs Pan-fry: Baking is easier and healthier, but you can pan-fry in olive oil for more browning.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based mozzarella alternative.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes! Thaw and squeeze out all moisture before adding.
Q: Are they freezer-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Freeze baked meatballs in a container for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280
Protein: 26g
Carbs: 6g
Fat: 16g
Fiber:1g
Sodium: ~400mg