Easy Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Succulent turkey meatballs swimming in a rich marinara sauce promise a delightful culinary adventure.

Crafting these tender orbs requires minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Lean protein meets zesty tomato goodness in this Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Home cooks appreciate how quickly these meatballs come together in a single skillet.

Fragrant herbs and carefully selected spices elevate each bite beyond ordinary weeknight fare.

Warm, comforting, and surprisingly light, these meatballs satisfy without weighing you down.

Grab a fork and let the deliciousness begin!

What You’ll Need For Baked Turkey Meatballs In Marinara Sauce Easy And Delicious Recipe

• Ground Turkey: A lean meat that provides a healthier alternative to beef while maintaining a rich, satisfying flavor.

• Breadcrumbs, Large Egg: These ingredients help hold the meatballs together and create a tender, consistent texture.

• Parmesan Cheese, Parsley, Garlic, Dried Oregano, Salt, Black Pepper: These ingredients add depth, aromatic herbs, and seasoning to make the meatballs deliciously savory.

• Marinara Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese: The marinara provides a classic Italian sauce base, while the mozzarella adds a creamy, melted cheese layer that completes the dish.

Step-By-Step For Baked Turkey Meatballs In Marinara Sauce Easy And Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Turn the oven to 400°F and let it heat up completely. A hot oven ensures your meatballs will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden exterior.

Step 2: Create Meatball Mixture

• Ground turkey
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Egg
• Garlic
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix everything thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well blended.

Step 3: Shape Tender Morsels

Roll the meat mixture into small round balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Place each meatball onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even cooking.

Step 4: Initial Roasting

Put the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through completely.

Step 5: Sauce Preparation

Select a baking dish and spread marinara sauce across the bottom, creating a flavorful base for your meatballs.

Step 6: Nestling Meatballs

Transfer the freshly baked meatballs from the baking sheet into the marinara-covered baking dish. Gently place them on top of the sauce, allowing them to absorb delicious flavors.

Step 7: Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs, covering them generously for a melty, irresistible finish.

Step 8: Final Baking

Return the baking dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 9: Serve With Flair

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy your delectable turkey meatballs!

Best Hints For Baked Turkey Meatballs In Marinara Sauce Easy And Delicious Recipe

• Minimize Moisture: Use lean ground turkey and drain excess liquid to prevent soggy meatballs, ensuring a perfect texture and crispy exterior.
• Boost Flavor Depth: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the meatballs' taste profile and create a more complex flavor.
• Perfect Binding Technique: Mix ingredients gently without overworking the meat to keep meatballs tender and prevent them from becoming tough or dense.
• Control Portion Size: Use a cookie scoop or wet hands to create uniform meatballs, which helps ensure even cooking and consistent results every time.
• Meal Prep Magic: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for quick future meals that cook directly from frozen.

Fun Twists On Baked Turkey Meatballs In Marinara Sauce Easy And Delicious Recipe

• Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs: Replace dried oregano with za'atar spice blend, add crumbled feta cheese, and incorporate chopped fresh mint for a Greek-inspired version.
• Low-Carb Protein Powerhouse: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour, use ground chicken instead of turkey, and serve over zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.
• Spicy Southwest Meatballs: Mix in diced green chiles, ground cumin, and chili powder. Top with pepper jack cheese and serve with cilantro-lime salsa for a zesty kick.
• Gluten-Free Comfort Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds, ensure marinara sauce is certified gluten-free, and serve alongside cauliflower rice for a safe alternative.

Good Sides With Baked Turkey Meatballs In Marinara Sauce Easy And Delicious Recipe

• Sip Classic Chianti: Medium-bodied red wine complements the rich tomato sauce and cuts through the meatballs' savory flavor, creating a balanced Italian dining experience.
• Serve with Crusty Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery bread slices absorb the marinara sauce wonderfully, providing a delightful textural contrast and extra flavor to each bite.
• Create Fresh Herb Salad: Light mixed greens with basil, arugula, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette add brightness and cut through the dish's richness, refreshing your palate between bites.

How To Keep Baked Turkey Meatballs In Marinara Sauce Easy And Delicious Recipe Fresh

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep them in the marinara sauce to maintain moisture. Refrigerated meatballs stay fresh for 3-4 days.
• Pack cooled meatballs with sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Frozen meatballs remain good for up to 3 months.
• Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Spread meatballs in a baking dish. Cover with foil to retain moisture.

Answers To Questions About Baked Turkey Meatballs In Marinara Sauce Easy And Delicious Recipe

• Are turkey meatballs healthier than beef meatballs?

Turkey meatballs are lower in fat and calories compared to beef meatballs, making them a leaner protein option with similar great taste.

• Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute and provides a similar texture and flavor profile for the meatballs.

• How do I prevent my turkey meatballs from becoming dry?

Mix in breadcrumbs, egg, and some grated Parmesan cheese to help retain moisture during baking. Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These turkey meatballs can be prepared in advance, stored in the refrigerator, and reheated easily for quick meals throughout the week.

What’s Great About Baked Turkey Meatballs In Marinara Sauce Easy And Delicious Recipe

• Create Hassle-Free Meal: Perfect for busy individuals seeking a simple yet satisfying dinner solution that requires minimal preparation and cleanup.
• Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows swapping ingredients or adding personal twists like different herbs, cheese varieties, or extra spices to suit individual taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Packed with protein and flavor, these meatballs appeal to both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
• Healthier Comfort Food Option: Lean ground turkey provides a nutritious alternative to traditional beef meatballs, delivering delicious taste without compromising on nutrition or satisfaction.

Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Juicy turkey meatballs in marinara sauce bring Mediterranean comfort to dinner tables with rich, aromatic flavors. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, offering a lighter alternative to classic beef meatballs that you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh Herbs and Aromatics:

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 400°F, ensuring a consistent cooking temperature for optimal meatball preparation.
2. Combine ground turkey with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, blending ingredients thoroughly with hands or utensil.
3. Create uniform meatballs by gently rolling mixture into compact spheres approximately 1-1.5 inches in diameter, placing each carefully on parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Roast meatballs in preheated oven for 20 minutes, monitoring until exterior turns golden brown and interior reaches complete doneness.
5. Spread marinara sauce evenly across baking dish, creating a flavorful foundation for the upcoming protein addition.
6. Transfer freshly baked meatballs from sheet directly into marinara-coated dish, positioning them strategically for maximum sauce absorption.
7. Distribute shredded mozzarella generously over meatballs, ensuring comprehensive cheese coverage for enhanced melting potential.
8. Return dish to oven, baking additional 10 minutes until cheese transforms into bubbling, golden landscape.
9. Allow brief cooling period after removing from oven, then garnish with fresh parsley for vibrant presentation and serve immediately while temperature and flavors remain optimal.

Notes

• Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier protein option that keeps the meatballs moist and flavorful without excess fat.
• Mix ingredients gently to prevent dense, tough meatballs; overmixing can make the texture rubbery and less enjoyable.
• Use a cookie scoop or small ice cream scoop to create uniform meatballs that cook evenly and look professionally prepared.
• Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for those with dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 335
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 610 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg