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Savory Turkey Meatballs with Rich Marinara Sauce

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These savory turkey meatballs are tender and juicy, simmered in a rich, tangy marinara sauce with a fresh garlic punch. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal that balances health-conscious cooking with soul-soothing flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (preferably lean, but not extra-lean to keep moist)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain panko recommended)
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (or dairy-free milk alternative)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon 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) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Wet your hands slightly and form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs, about 18-20 meatballs. Place on a plate or tray.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Brown meatballs in batches, turning gently, about 8 minutes total. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil if needed. Sauté onion over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  6. Nestle browned meatballs into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally and spooning sauce over meatballs.
  7. Taste sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Do not overmix meatball mixture to keep them tender. Brown meatballs in batches to avoid steaming. Simmer on low heat covered to keep moisture. Adjust sauce acidity with sugar or cream if needed. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan and use non-dairy milk.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/savory-turkey-meatballs-recipe-easy-homemade-rich-marinara-sauce/