SURPRISE MEATBALLS AND SPAGHETTI

1 lb extra-lean ground beef

1 pkg (10-oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and very well drained
1/3 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 egg
1 cup low-fat shredded Italian cheese blend
3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1/2 lb whole-wheat spaghetti, uncooked, broken in half
24-oz spaghetti sauce (read labels for low sugar content)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a mixing bowl, mix together the beef, spinach, bread crumbs, garlic, egg, 3/4 cup of the shredded cheese, and 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese.  Shape mixture into 18 meatballs using approximately 2 tablespoons for each meatball.

Place meatballs on a large baking pan that has been lightly sprayed with nonstick cooking spray and bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until done through.

Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti as directed on the package and heat the sauce in a saucepan.

Drain the spaghetti and place on a serving platter.  Stir the meatballs into the sauce and spoon over the spaghetti. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over all.

file photo