Description
A delicious and easy turkey meatballs recipe featuring lean ground turkey mixed with Italian and panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, feta cheese, and herbs, cooked on the stovetop in olive oil and simmered in marinara sauce for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey 85% lean
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 small white onion finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 jar marinara sauce 28 ounces
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, diced onion, chopped parsley, beaten egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Add Feta Cheese: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese into the turkey mixture until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form Meatballs and Heat Skillet: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 20 to 25 pieces, and place them on a baking sheet. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil, swirling to coat the pan evenly.
- Brown the Meatballs: Carefully place the meatballs in the hot skillet, spacing them so they do not touch. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side, then turn to brown the other sides.
- Simmer in Marinara Sauce: Pour the jar of marinara sauce over the browned meatballs in the skillet. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb flavors. Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165ºF.
- Serve: Serve the turkey meatballs hot, ideally over spaghetti, alongside garlic bread or roasted vegetables like broccoli. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a finishing touch.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey (85% lean) for a juicy yet healthier meatball.
- If preferred, substitute fresh herbs for dried ones for a brighter flavor.
- Check the internal temperature to ensure meatballs are fully cooked to 165ºF for safety.
- Try serving with your favorite pasta or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Nutritional values are estimates based on typical ingredient brands and serving sizes; consult a nutritionist for precise dietary needs.
