Introduction
Turkey meatballs are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs. This recipe combines lean ground turkey with a variety of flavorful ingredients, served with a light and tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, these turkey meatballs are both nutritious and delicious, making them an excellent choice for family meals.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ground turkey – 1 pound
Breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup
Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, grated
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Oregano – 1 teaspoon
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Egg – 1 large
Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Canned crushed tomatoes – 1 can (28 ounces)
Sugar – 1 teaspoon
Red pepper flakes – 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: About 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, grated parmesan, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything is well incorporated, but do not overmix.
Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You should have about 20 meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Combine the Meatballs and Sauce
Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve
Serve the turkey meatballs hot, garnished with extra parsley or grated parmesan, if desired.
Notes
Meatball Variations
Feel free to add different herbs and spices to the meatball mixture for additional flavor, such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezing Options
You can freeze uncooked meatballs or cooked meatballs. For freezer storage, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer bag. Cooked meatballs can be reheated directly from frozen in the skillet.
Cook Techniques
Mixing Ingredients
When preparing meatballs, it is essential to mix the ground turkey and other ingredients without overworking the meat. This ensures a tender texture.
Shaping Meatballs
Forming meatballs should be done gently. Use your hands to shape them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Meatballs
Searing the meatballs in a hot skillet before simmering them in sauce adds depth of flavor. This step helps develop a delicious crust.
Simmering in Sauce
Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for a sufficient amount of time. This not only cooks the meatballs through but also infuses them with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs with a side of pasta or on a sub roll for delicious meatball sandwiches. Pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef, pork, or chicken instead of ground turkey.
How can I make the meatballs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, meatballs can be frozen before or after cooking. Just ensure they are properly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
What sauce pairs well with turkey meatballs?
A classic marinara sauce or a light tomato sauce works wonderfully with turkey meatballs.
How can I ensure my meatballs are juicy?
Adding moisture-rich ingredients, like grated vegetables or soaked bread, helps keep the meatballs juicy.
Conclusion
The turkey meatballs with light tomato sauce are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. Packed with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients, these meatballs are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for family meals or meal prep. Serve them with pasta, on a sub, or alongside a fresh salad for a satisfying dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Turkey Meatball Subs
Enjoy the turkey meatballs in a toasted sub roll topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese for a hearty sandwich.
Pasta with Turkey Meatballs
Pair your turkey meatballs with whole grain or gluten-free pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a complete meal.
Turkey Meatballs with Rice
Serve the meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice, drizzled with the light tomato sauce for a filling dish.
Meatball and Vegetable Skewers
Thread turkey meatballs onto skewers with peppers, zucchini, and onions, then grill for a fun and tasty option.
Turkey Meatball Soup
Add the meatballs to a vegetable broth with your choice of vegetables for a warming and nutritious soup.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix turkey meatballs with quinoa or rice and stuff into bell peppers, then bake for a wholesome and colorful dish.