Deliciously Cheesy Stuffed Meatballs with Spinach: A Perfect Comfort Meal

Serving Suggestions: Stuffed meatballs are perfect on their own, but they can also be served alongside pasta, rice, or a bed of sautéed vegetables. For a more indulgent option, enjoy them with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad.

Storing Leftovers: These meatballs store beautifully in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs (without sauce) for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the microwave or oven.

Meal Prep: Make a large batch of these stuffed meatballs and freeze individual portions for easy weeknight dinners.

Variants:
Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you're looking for a lighter version, feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. The flavor will still be delicious, and the meatballs will remain moist thanks to the spinach and cheese stuffing.

Spicy Version: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.

Different Cheeses: You can experiment with different cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, or cheddar to give the stuffing a unique flavor.

Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ground meat for a vegetarian alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu mixed with breadcrumbs for a delicious meatless option.

FAQ:
Q1: Can I use frozen spinach for the stuffing? Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw it first and drain any excess water before mixing it with the cheeses.

Q2: How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through? The meatballs should be golden brown on the outside, and when cut open, the center should no longer be pink. Alternatively, you can use a meat thermometer, and the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef or turkey.

Q3: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and stuff them a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake them.

Q4: Can I cook these meatballs in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook the meatballs in a slow cooker with marinara sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until they are fully cooked and tender.