Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 cup fresh spinach, very finely chopped
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 oz (115g) mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for browning)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until they are just combined. Do not overwork the meat, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it into a small disc in the palm of your hand.
- Place one cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of the meat disc.
- Fold the meat around the cheese and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball. Make sure there are no cracks where the cheese can leak out.
- Repeat this process with the remaining meat and cheese, placing the meatballs about an inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional: Lightly brush the tops of the meatballs with olive oil for a crispier exterior.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned on the outside and cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the cheese settle.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes