Turkey and Spinach Meatballs with Pasta

Ingredients

• 1¼ lb ground turkey
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg
• 2 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¾ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Finely chop the spinach. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Form the mixture into 16-20 meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. While meatballs bake, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large saucepan, gently heat the marinara sauce over medium-low heat. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked pasta. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.