Why Make This Recipe
Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce is a delicious and healthy option for dinner. Using ground turkey instead of beef makes it lighter, while the tomato sauce keeps it flavorful and satisfying. It’s a quick dish to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite pasta or add extra veggies to the mix.
How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti or other pasta
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp sugar
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and form small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and sugar. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
- Return the browned meatballs to the sauce and simmer for another 15 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked.
- In the meantime, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it with the sauce and meatballs.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Serve Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce over a bed of spaghetti or your choice of pasta. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the meatballs in the sauce for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Tips to Make Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
- Make sure to not overmix the turkey mixture. This keeps the meatballs tender.
- You can add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrition.
- If you like spice, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Variation
You can use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or chickpeas mixed with breadcrumbs and spices to form meatballs.
FAQs
Can I use frozen turkey meatballs?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey meatballs. Just add them to the sauce and simmer until heated through.
What kind of pasta goes best with this recipe?
Spaghetti is a classic choice, but you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
