If you're on the hunt for a delectable yet healthy meal that the whole family will love, look no further than our mouthwatering Pasta Healthy Turkey Meatballs Sauce! This Italian-inspired dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers a nutritious twist on a classic favorite. With tender turkey meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce and served over your choice of pasta, it's the perfect comfort food that won't derail your health goals. Ready to impress your taste buds and elevate your dinner game? Dive into our recipe and discover how easy it is to create this wholesome dish in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice golden-brown color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground turkey, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 egg. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, then adjust according to your preference.
- Once the mixture is seasoned, shape it into meatballs about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. You should end up with approximately 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size you prefer.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Make sure to leave some space between each meatball to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should be golden brown on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat 2 cups of marinara sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully add them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce, being careful not to break them apart.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the meatballs to absorb some of the sauce.
- After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even some Italian herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.
- Serve the turkey meatballs and marinara sauce over your choice of cooked pasta, such as whole wheat spaghetti or zoodles for a healthier option. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your healthy turkey meatballs with marinara sauce as a delicious and nutritious meal!
Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the turkey, breadcrumbs, and egg, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so keep it gentle!
- Uniform Size: Aim for meatballs that are about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. This ensures even cooking and helps you achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze!
- Check the Temperature: For perfectly cooked meatballs, use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Simmer for Flavor: Letting the baked meatballs simmer in the marinara sauce for a few extra minutes allows them to soak up all that delicious flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- Experiment with Pasta: For a healthier twist, try serving your meatballs over whole wheat spaghetti, zucchini noodles (zoodles), or even spaghetti squash.
- Garnish to Impress: A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil can elevate your dish and make it look restaurant-worthy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
