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Quick Juicy Turkey Meatballs Recipe 20-Minute Easy Marinara

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A fast and flavorful recipe for juicy turkey meatballs simmered in a simple marinara sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (lean, not extra lean)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned; panko works well)
  • ¼ cup milk (any kind, including dairy-free)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, a few, torn)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, beaten egg, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, about 5 minutes.
  2. Wet your hands with water and shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, about 16-18 total. Place on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet, about 5 minutes.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
  4. Add meatballs carefully to the skillet without overcrowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked through.
  5. Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs in the pan. Stir in torn basil leaves and red pepper flakes if using. Lower heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve meatballs hot with sauce, garnished with extra parsley or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs. Searing the meatballs before simmering locks in moisture and flavor. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, quick dinner, easy marinara, weeknight meal, healthy meatballs, ground turkey recipe

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/quick-juicy-turkey-meatballs-recipe-20-minute-easy-marinara/