Easy Spinach & Garlic Meatballs Recipe – Healthy Dinner Idea
These easy spinach & garlic meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Packed with fresh spinach, garlic, and herbs, they’re tender, flavorful, and perfect served with pasta, rice, or on their own with marinara sauce. A healthy dinner idea that’s simple to make and loved by the whole family.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet (for sautéing spinach & garlic)
- Baking sheet (if baking)
- Parchment paper
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, or lamb)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped) or 1 cup frozen (thawed & squeezed dry)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or oats/almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare spinach & garlic: Heat olive oil in skillet. Sauté garlic until fragrant, add spinach, and cook until wilted. Cool slightly.
- Mix base: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, spinach-garlic mixture, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape meatballs: Chill mixture for 10–15 minutes, then roll into 1-inch balls.
- Cook:-Bake: Place on parchment-lined sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes.-Pan-fry: Cook in skillet with olive oil until browned and cooked through.-Air fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with marinara sauce, pasta, or dipping sauces.
Notes
- Meat options: Mix beef and turkey for balanced flavor and leanness.
- Spinach tip: Always squeeze excess water from spinach to avoid soggy texture.
- Binder: Breadcrumbs or oats are essential for structure; don’t skip them.
- Make-ahead: Shape meatballs and refrigerate uncooked up to 24 hours, or freeze for 2 months.
- Serving idea: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color and freshness.