Creamy Spinach Florentine Meatballs

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Creamy Spinach Florentine Meatballs combine tender Italian meatballs with a rich, cheesy spinach sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to become a family favorite. The addition of berbere spice adds a unique twist, enhancing the flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian meatballs
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp berbere spice blend (optional)
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups half and half (Lucerne®)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, cut into 8 chunks, room temperature (Lucerne®)
  • 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed (Signature SELECT®)
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated (Lucerne®)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Meatballs:
    • In a large pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes tender, roughly 5 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
    • Stir in 1/2 tsp kosher salt, black pepper, and berbere spice blend (if using).
  3. Make the Cream Sauce:
    • Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes.
    • Gradually whisk in the half and half, ensuring no lumps form.   Bring the sauce to a gentle boil and let it simmer until it thickens, roughly 5 minutes.
    • Add the cream cheese chunks to the sauce, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
  4. Add the Spinach:
    • Stir in the thawed spinach and the remaining 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Cook until the spinach is heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
    • Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them with the sauce.
    • Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top.
  6. Melt the Cheese:
    • Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve the Creamy Spinach Florentine Meatballs hot, garnished with additional grated mozzarella cheese if desired. This dish is excellent served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach Florentine Meatballs are a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the savory flavors of Italian meatballs with a rich, cheesy spinach sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to satisfy and delight with its creamy texture and flavorful twist. Enjoy this comforting and hearty meal!