Description
Italian Turkey Meatballs with Marinara is a delicious dish that combines juicy turkey meatballs with a rich, tangy tomato sauce. The meatballs are flavored with Italian seasonings like garlic, onion, and fresh herbs, then browned and simmered in a marinara sauce made from crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and aromatic herbs. The result is a warm, comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
🦃 For the Turkey Meatballs
1 lb ground turkey (93% lean preferred)
½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp finely chopped onion or shallot
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
🍅 For the Marinara Sauce
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, torn (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until combined — do not overmix (keeps them tender).
Form into 1 ½-inch balls (about 16 meatballs).
2️⃣ Brown the Meatballs
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
Cook 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
(They don’t need to be fully cooked through — they’ll finish in the sauce.)
3️⃣ Make the Marinara
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, then add the browned meatballs.
Cover and simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, until meatballs are fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
4️⃣ Serve
Sprinkle with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Serve over spaghetti, zoodles, or polenta.
Notes
For added flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or chopped basil before serving. These meatballs pair perfectly with spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or a side of garlic bread. You can also freeze leftovers for an easy weeknight meal later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking & Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3–4 meatballs with sauce
- Calories: 310
Keywords: Turkey meatballs, Italian turkey meatballs, turkey meatballs recipe, healthy turkey meatballs