Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Spinach and Cream Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy ground beef meatballs stuffed with melted mozzarella, served in a rich spinach cream sauce, perfect for a keto dinner. This mediterranean-inspired keto (low carb) ready in about 40 minutes blends ground beef, fresh, chopped spinach, heavy cream into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 520 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup almond flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion, place one 4 oz mozzarella cube in the center, and carefully shape the meat around the cheese to form sealed meatballs.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove meatballs and set aside.
  4. Step 4: In the same skillet, add 3 cups chopped fresh spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 4 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Return meatballs to the skillet, spoon the spinach cream sauce over them, and cook together for 2 more minutes to meld flavors. Serve hot.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Spinach and Cream Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (20 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Spinach and Cream Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Spinach and Cream Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Spinach and Cream Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs with Spinach and Cream Sauce low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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