Ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the ingredients are just combined—avoid over-mixing to ensure the meatballs remain tender.

2. Stuff with Mozzarella:

Scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture into your hand and flatten it slightly. Place a mozzarella cube in the center and gently wrap the meat around it, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Repeat until all the meat mixture and mozzarella cubes are used.

3. Cook the Meatballs:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Place the meatballs in the skillet in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each meatball for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until evenly browned and cooked through.

4. Serve:

Serve the meatballs warm, accompanied by marinara sauce for dipping, or over pasta. For a finishing touch, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.

Enjoy these delicious, cheesy meatballs as a main course or an appetizer!