Turkey meatballs, smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, are a delicious and healthy twist on the classic Italian dish. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, these healthy turkey meatballs are a surefire hit.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need:.
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions:.
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, basil, oregano, minced garlic, beaten egg, and salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Take about a tablespoon of the turkey mixture and roll it into a small meatball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs, depending on the size.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Make sure to turn the meatballs gently to prevent them from falling apart.
Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In the same skillet, add the tomato sauce and bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat. If desired, season the sauce with additional herbs and spices such as dried basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs in the Sauce
Add the cooked meatballs back into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Gently coat the meatballs with the sauce and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Step 6: Melt the Mozzarella Cheese
Once the meatballs are cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving dish. These healthy turkey meatballs can be served on their own with a side of crusty bread for dipping or over pasta or zucchini noodles for a more filling meal. Serve hot and enjoy!.
Conclusion
Healthy turkey meatballs smothered in tomato sauce and melted mozzarella are a flavorful and nutritious option for any meal. This recipe allows you to indulge in your favorite comfort food while still maintaining a balanced and healthy diet.
Give these turkey meatballs a try and experience a guilt-free, delicious dish that will satisfy your cravings!.