Turkey meatballs in tomato sauce recipe is one of my all-time favorite comfort foods. They are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner. I remember the first time I made these meatballs. I had a craving for something hearty, yet light. After experimenting with ground turkey, herbs, and spices, I created a dish that made my taste buds dance. Now, I can’t wait to share this amazing recipe with you!
Ingredients for Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe
To make delicious turkey meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (I prefer Panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Making turkey meatballs is simple and fun. Here’s how I do it:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the Meatballs: With wet hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This recipe should yield around 20 meatballs.
- Chill the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and refrigerate them for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Making the Tomato Sauce
While the meatballs chill, I prepare the tomato sauce. Here’s how I do it:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavors.
Cooking the Turkey Meatballs
Once the meatballs are chilled, it’s time to cook them. Here’s my method:
- Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer in the Sauce: Once browned, transfer the meatballs to the tomato sauce. Cover and let them simmer for about 20 minutes. This step ensures the meatballs cook through and absorb the sauce’s flavors.
Serving Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
When it comes to serving turkey meatballs in tomato sauce, I love to keep it simple. Here are some ideas:
- Over Pasta: Serve the meatballs over spaghetti or your favorite pasta. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles.
- With Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
- On a Sub: Place meatballs on a hoagie roll, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly for a delicious meatball sub.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), storing them is easy. Here’s how I do it:
- Refrigerate: Place the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in the sauce. They can last up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
Reheating turkey meatballs is simple. Here are my go-to methods:
- Stovetop: Place the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- Microwave: Transfer meatballs to a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Meatballs
One of the reasons I love turkey meatballs is their nutritional value. Here are some benefits:
- Lean Protein: Ground turkey is a great source of lean protein, which helps in muscle building and repair.
- Lower in Fat: Compared to beef, turkey has less saturated fat, making it a healthier choice.
- Packed with Flavor: The herbs and spices add flavor without extra calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Variations on Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe
If you want to switch things up, here are some variations I enjoy:
- Add Veggies: Mix in finely chopped spinach or zucchini into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy version.
- Different Sauces: Try barbecue sauce or a creamy sauce for a different flavor profile.
Turkey meatballs in tomato sauce are a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction. They are easy to make and perfect for family dinners. I love how versatile they are, allowing for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you serve them over pasta, in a sub, or with a side of garlic bread, they are sure to please everyone at the table.