Ingredients:

• For the meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef.
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced.
  • 1 egg.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs.
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated.
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning.
  • 1 tsp salt.
  • ½ tsp black pepper.
  • 12 small mozzarella balls.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil.
• For the sauce (optional):
  • 2 cups marinara sauce.
  • Fresh basil for garnish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the meatballs:

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped spinach, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper until well blended.
• Divide into 12 equal portions. Gently flatten each portion, place a ball of mozzarella (or cube) in the middle and form a ball around the meat, sealing it completely.

2. Cook meatballs:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, flipping occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked.
• You can also bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

3. Prepare sauce (optional):

• In a saucepan, heat marinara sauce over low heat and simmer for 5 minutes until heated through.
• Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for a few minutes to soak up the flavors.

4. Serve:

• Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil, over pasta, rice, or as a single dish with marinara sauce on the side.

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