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There's something truly comforting about a dish that brings together the hearty flavors of ground beef and the earthy goodness of spinach, all wrapped up in a cheesy embrace. This recipe for cheesy beef and spinach stuffed meatballs is a nod to the traditional Midwestern cooking that I grew up with. It's a dish that speaks of family gatherings around the dinner table, where stories were shared and laughter echoed through the room. These meatballs are not just a meal; they're a connection to the past, a reminder of simpler times when food was made with love and care. Perfect for a cozy dinner, these meatballs are sure to bring warmth to your home and joy to your heart.

These cheesy beef and spinach stuffed meatballs are a delight on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatballs. For a true Midwestern feast, serve them alongside some freshly baked dinner rolls to soak up every last bit of that delectable cheese sauce.

Servings: 4

1 pound ground beef
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup marinara sauce
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs, placing a small cube of the remaining mozzarella cheese in the center of each meatball and sealing it inside.

Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

For a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. If you want to add more vegetables, consider mixing in some finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers with the spinach.