Italian Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce – Get ready for a mouthwatering adventure with our Italian Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce recipe! These succulent meatballs, made with lean ground turkey and a blend of aromatic herbs, are simmered in a rich and zesty tomato sauce that’ll transport your taste buds straight to Italy. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is a breeze to follow and promises to be a hit with your family and friends. So, why wait? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Oh, let me tell you a heartwarming story about how our little family fell head over heels for these Italian Turkey Meatballs! It all started on a chilly winter evening when the aroma of the sizzling meatballs filled our cozy kitchen. My husband, who typically claims to be a “meat-lover,” was a bit skeptical at first. But as soon as he took the first bite, his eyes lit up with delight. It was as if he had discovered a hidden treasure on his plate! Since that magical night, these meatballs have become our ultimate comfort food. Every time we make them, it feels like a culinary journey back to our favorite Italian trattoria, where memories of laughter and joy come flooding back. These meatballs have become the glue that binds us together around the dinner table, making our family meals truly special.
Why This Italian Turkey Meatballs Recipe?
- Healthiness Meets Flavor: Say goodbye to heavy, calorie-laden meatballs! Our lean ground turkey version keeps things light without sacrificing any of the mouthwatering flavors. Perfect for those seeking a balanced, wholesome meal.
- Bursting with Aromas: The combination of grated onion, garlic, and fragrant herbs like oregano and basil creates an enticing bouquet of flavors that’ll tickle your senses.
- Versatile and Convenient: Serve these meatballs on pasta, rice, or enjoy them on their own as a delightful appetizer. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping party dish.
Ingredients:
The Meatballs:
- 450g (1 lb.) lean ground turkey
- ½ medium onion, grated
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 30g (¼ cup) minced flat-leaf parsley
- 30g (¼ cup) whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
The Sauce:
- 10ml (2 teaspoons) olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 30g (¼ cup) minced flat-leaf parsley
- 4 basil leaves, thinly sliced
Directions:
The Meatballs:
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until fully incorporated.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into delicious meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes until they are firm to the touch and cooked through.
The Sauce:
Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, approximately 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, letting the flavors meld together.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, bring the sauce to a boil, and then let it simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the minced parsley and basil to elevate the taste.
Gently place the succulent meatballs into the simmering sauce, ensuring they are well coated with the tantalizing flavors of the tomato sauce.
Serve these delectable Italian turkey meatballs over pasta or rice for a wholesome meal, or enjoy them solo as a delightful appetizer.
Notes:
- Feel free to swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or even lean beef if you prefer.
- For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based meat substitutes or chickpea-based meatballs.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
- These meatballs freeze well, so go ahead and make a big batch to enjoy on busy days.
And there you have it, folks! Our Italian Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce recipe brings the heart and soul of Italy right to your kitchen. These delectable meatballs, tender and full of flavor, are sure to win over the hearts of everyone at your table. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a breeze to follow and guarantees a memorable meal every time.
As you serve these mouthwatering meatballs, you’ll not only delight in the explosion of flavors but also create cherished moments with your loved ones. It’s amazing how a simple recipe can become a centerpiece for creating unforgettable memories around the dinner table.
So, gather your family and friends, and treat them to this delightful Italian feast. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these meatballs in tangy tomato sauce are sure to impress and leave everyone asking for more. Remember, the key to perfection is infusing each bite with love and laughter!
We hope you embark on this culinary adventure and savor the magic of Italian flavors. Don’t be surprised if these Italian Turkey Meatballs become a staple in your household, just like they did in ours. Cheers to cooking with love and making lifelong memories through food!
Bon Appétit!
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the baked meatballs for up to 3 months.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of whole wheat breadcrumbs?
Of course! While whole wheat breadcrumbs add a nutty flavor, regular breadcrumbs work just as well in this recipe.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?
Definitely! If you have ripe, juicy tomatoes on hand, feel free to crush and use them in place of canned crushed tomatoes. The taste will be even more authentic!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the whole wheat breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds, and you’re good to go.
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Italian Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
The Meatballs:
- 450 g 1 lb. lean ground turkey
- ½ medium onion grated
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 30 g ¼ cup minced flat-leaf parsley
- 30 g ¼ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
The Sauce:
- 10 ml 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 small onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 can 14 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 30 g ¼ cup minced flat-leaf parsley
- 4 basil leaves thinly sliced
Instructions
The Meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until fully incorporated.
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into delicious meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes until they are firm to the touch and cooked through.
The Sauce:
- Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, approximately 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, letting the flavors meld together.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, bring the sauce to a boil, and then let it simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the minced parsley and basil to elevate the taste.
- Gently place the succulent meatballs into the simmering sauce, ensuring they are well coated with the tantalizing flavors of the tomato sauce.
- Serve these delectable Italian turkey meatballs over pasta or rice for a wholesome meal, or enjoy them solo as a delightful appetizer.
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