Wholesome Turkey Meatballs in a Creamy Spinach Sauce
Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs offer a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal. These meatballs blend ground turkey with fresh spinach and sundried tomatoes, topped with a luscious creamy sauce. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also provide a delicious twist on traditional meatballs.
Why Make This Recipe
Choosing to make Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs brings together nutritious ingredients packed with flavor. Ground turkey serves as a lean protein source, while spinach contributes essential vitamins. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce enhances the taste, making mealtime exciting for everyone. Families can enjoy these meatballs without the guilt, making them a great addition to any dinner table.
How to Make Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Step by Step:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into attractive meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they cook through.
- While the meatballs bake, heat a skillet over medium heat. Combine heavy cream and chicken broth in the skillet, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- When the meatballs are ready, add them to the skillet and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Serve these flavorful meatballs warm.
How to Serve Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
You can serve Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option. Pairing them with a fresh salad can complete your meal, providing a balance of flavors and nutrients.
How to Store Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
To store leftovers, place the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag, where they can stay fresh for up to three months.
Tips to Make Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
- For added flavor, marinate the sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil before mixing them into the meatball mixture.
- Use fresh herbs if available for an extra burst of taste.
- For a low-carb variation, serve the meatballs with spiralized vegetables instead of pasta.
Variations
You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms. Swapping in ground chicken or beef can also change the flavor profile while keeping the dish equally delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
2. How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
You can check for doneness using a meat thermometer, which should read 165°F (74°C).
3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
Feel free to enjoy these savory Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs for a nutritious meal everyone will love! For more meal inspiration, check out our delicious high-protein chicken salad recipe.
Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey Lean protein source.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped Provides essential vitamins.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Enhances flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg Bind the ingredients.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning For additional flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Creamy Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream Base of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth For flavor.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded To top the meatballs.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into attractive meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
Cooking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they cook through.
- While the meatballs bake, heat a skillet over medium heat and combine heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- When the meatballs are ready, add them to the skillet and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Serve these flavorful meatballs warm.