Cheese-Stuffed Pork Meatballs with Creamy Spinach Sauce

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

Juicy pork meatballs stuffed with melted cheese, simmered in a rich spinach cream sauce perfect for a satisfying keto dinner. This mediterranean-inspired keto (keto, low carb) ready in about 40 minutes blends ground pork, large egg, grated parmesan cheese 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

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground pork, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Form the mixture into 16 equal balls, placing a 1/4-inch cube of mozzarella cheese inside each, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning frequently until browned on all sides.
  4. Step 4: Remove meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 minced garlic clove and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Add 4 cups fresh spinach leaves and cook for 2 minutes until wilted. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  6. Step 6: Return the meatballs to the skillet, spoon the spinach cream sauce over them, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and cheese inside is melted.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Cheese-Stuffed Pork Meatballs with Creamy Spinach 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 Pork Meatballs with Creamy Spinach 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 Pork Meatballs with Creamy Spinach 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 Pork Meatballs with Creamy Spinach 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 Pork Meatballs with Creamy Spinach Sauce keto?

Yes — this recipe is tagged keto, 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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