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Spinach Garlic Meatballs

Delicious meatballs made with ground meat, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic, perfect for a hearty meal or snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 20 meatballs
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 275
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatball Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey Opt for lean meat for a healthier version.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped Adds vibrant color and nutrition.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced A fragrant and flavorful base.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For a fresh, herby note.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese An umami-packed addition that melts beautifully.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binder for the meat mixture.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Provides texture and holds the meatballs together.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper A gentle kick.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano For an aromatic quality.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 3 cups marinara sauce To smother the meatballs.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for browning the meatballs.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Extra garlic for an enriched flavor.
  • to taste fresh basil leaves for garnish Adds an appealing visual touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey with finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and oregano. Use your hands to mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
  2. Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. You should be able to make approximately 20 meatballs.
Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and additional minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and aromatic.
  3. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir to combine the flavors and allow it to simmer briefly.
  4. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the marinara sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors.
  5. Once cooked, remove from the heat and let rest for a few minutes. Serve garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a mild kick. You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.