Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs are a delicious, protein-rich dish packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of tender turkey meatballs, spinach, and a creamy sauce makes this a versatile option for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
- Juicy turkey meatballs flavored with herbs and spices, mixed with finely chopped spinach for added nutrients.
- Simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made with garlic, broth, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of crusty bread.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
1 pound ground turkey
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or ½ cup frozen, thawed and drained)
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
½ cup chicken broth
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Meatballs:
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine:
Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully add them to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, perhaps over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad.
Notes:
Turkey Meat: Use ground turkey (preferably a mix of white and dark meat) for a balance of flavor and moisture.
Spinach: Fresh spinach works best, but frozen spinach (thawed and drained) can be substituted.
Cream Sauce: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more broth or reducing the cream for a lighter version.
Cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Asiago.
Tips:
Mixing Meatballs: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough; gently combine the ingredients.
Shaping: Use a cookie scoop or wet hands to shape evenly-sized meatballs for consistent cooking.
Cooking Options:
Pan-fry for a golden crust before adding to the sauce.
Bake for a healthier option, then simmer in the sauce.
Make-Ahead: Prepare meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. They can go directly into the sauce when cooking.
Customizations: Add finely chopped onions, garlic, or even shredded zucchini for extra flavor and moisture.
Servings:
Yield: Approximately 4-6 servings.
Portion: Plan for 3-4 meatballs per person, depending on their size and accompanying side dishes.
This dish is easy to adapt and works well for weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of this hearty recipe