Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended) or ground turkey
  • 1 cup (85g) fresh spinach, finely chopped (or ½ cup (42.5g) frozen, thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup (50g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular, plain)
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese (or small mozzarella pearls, about ½ inch diameter)
  • 2 tbsp (10g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
  • Marinara sauce or your favorite tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, gently mix together ground meat, spinach, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, onion powder, salt, pepper, oregano, Parmesan (if using), and mozzarella. Avoid overmixing!
  3. Using a scoop or spoon, form the mixture into 1½-inch (golf ball-sized) meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for poultry.
  5. Serve immediately, plain or with marinara sauce, extra mozzarella, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.