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Tender Turkey Meatballs Recipe Easy Homemade Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

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Tender turkey meatballs cooked in a rich marinara sauce, offering a comforting and flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground turkey (preferably lean, 93/7)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup (15g) finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz / 800g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently until just combined, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons (roughly 20g) of mixture and roll into balls. You should get around 20-24 meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet or plate.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
  5. In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, browning on all sides for 5-7 minutes total. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
  6. Transfer browned meatballs into the simmering marinara sauce. Cover skillet with lid and simmer on low for 20-25 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
  7. Check meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve meatballs and sauce over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

To keep meatballs moist, avoid overmixing and simmer them gently in sauce instead of baking. Brown meatballs first for better texture and flavor. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth. For gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, marinara sauce, easy dinner, homemade meatballs, healthy meatballs, quick recipe, family dinner

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