Turkey Meatballs with Spaghetti

Lean and Flavorful Meatballs.

Turkey Meatballs with Spaghetti:

This Turkey Meatballs with Spaghetti dish is a lighter take on the classic pasta and meatballs, using lean ground turkey for a flavorful and healthier option. The tender turkey meatballs are paired with a simple marinara sauce and served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s an easy, wholesome, and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

1- For the Turkey Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil, for cooking

2- For the Spaghetti:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• Salt, for the pasta water

3- For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 cups tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Turkey Meatballs:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Use your hands to mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure the meatballs stay tender.
• Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and set aside on a plate.

2. Cook the Meatballs:

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, cooking them for 3-4 minutes per side or until browned on all sides.
• Once the meatballs are browned, reduce the heat to low and add the tomato sauce. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

3. Cook the Spaghetti:

• While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes for al dente.
• Drain the spaghetti, reserving a little pasta water.

4. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

• In a small saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine and simmer for about 5 minutes to heat through.

5. Assemble the Dish:

• Place a serving of cooked spaghetti on each plate.
• Top with a few turkey meatballs and spoon some marinara sauce over the top.
• Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Tips & suggestions:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the turkey meatballs with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a little extra heat.
• Veggies: Add some sautéed veggies (like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach) to the marinara sauce for added nutrients.

Enjoy your meal!