Meatballs are a classic comfort food loved by many. Whether enjoyed as a snack or added to a pasta dish, they are a versatile option for any meal.

This Italian-style turkey meatball recipe takes a healthier twist on the traditional recipe while preserving all the flavor. Let’s explore how to make these delicious meatballs!.

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
1 cup bread crumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
1 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Making the Meatballs

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a baking sheet.

2. Combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.

3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.

4. Take a mozzarella cheese cube and press it into the center of each meatball, covering it completely with meat. Repeat until all the meatballs have cheese in the center.

5. Place the meatballs on the greased baking sheet and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Remove the sheet from the oven and set aside.

Making the Tomato Sauce

1. While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent.

2. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.

3. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Once the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are cooked, add the meatballs to the saucepan and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the meatballs are coated in the sauce and heated through.

Serving

Dish up the meatballs with the tomato sauce and any sides of your choice. Enjoy hot, and savor the incredible flavors of Italy even from your own kitchen!.