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
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1 lb ground turkey (93% lean preferred)
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½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 large egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp finely chopped onion or shallot
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
🍅 For the Marinara Sauce
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil, torn (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Meatballs
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In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Mix gently until combined — do not overmix (keeps them tender).
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Form into 1 ½-inch balls (about 16 meatballs).
2️⃣ Brown the Meatballs
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Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
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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
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In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
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Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a simmer, then add the browned meatballs.
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Cover and simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, until meatballs are fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
4️⃣ Serve
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Sprinkle with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
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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