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Easy Pasta with Turkey Meatballs Recipe

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4.8 from 19 reviews

A simple and delicious recipe for easy pasta with flavorful turkey meatballs cooked in a savory marinara sauce and topped with fresh basil, perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground turkey lean
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Italian seasoned
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Pasta and Sauce

  • 12 ounces pasta your choice
  • 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  2. Form meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
  3. Brown meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook them until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 7-8 minutes.
  4. Cook pasta: While the meatballs are browning, cook the pasta in boiling water according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.
  5. Simmer meatballs in sauce: After browning, pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked through and tender.
  6. Toss and serve: Combine the cooked pasta with the meatballs and sauce in the skillet or a large serving bowl. Toss gently to coat the pasta well. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped basil.

Notes

  • Use lean ground turkey for healthier meatballs and to reduce grease.
  • If breadcrumbs are unavailable, crushed crackers or oatmeal can be used as a substitute.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute pasta and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can be added for extra flavor.
  • To make meatballs more tender, soak breadcrumbs in a little milk before mixing.
  • Use a non-stick skillet to prevent meatballs from sticking while browning.
  • Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated and reheated in sauce for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://mealsbykate.com/easy-pasta-with-turkey-meatballs-recipe/