turkey meatballs in tomato sauce (Printer-Friendly Version)
Tender turkey meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce, served over pasta for a comforting, satisfying meal.
# Required Ingredients:
→ Meatballs
01 -
450 g ground turkey
02 -
30 g breadcrumbs
03 -
30 g grated Parmesan cheese
04 -
1 large egg
05 -
2 garlic cloves, minced
06 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 -
Salt, to taste
08 -
Black pepper, to taste
→ Sauce
09 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
10 -
800 g crushed tomatoes
11 -
0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
12 -
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
→ Pasta and garnish
13 -
340 g spaghetti or other pasta
14 -
Fresh basil, for garnish
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until incorporated.
02 -
Form the turkey mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs using clean hands or a scoop.
03 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and sear until golden on all sides. Remove meatballs and set aside.
04 -
Using the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and sugar. Stir and simmer over medium-low heat for 10 minutes.
05 -
Gently return browned meatballs to the sauce. Cover and simmer for an additional 15 minutes, ensuring meatballs are cooked through.
06 -
While the meatballs simmer, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
07 -
Toss the drained pasta with sauce and meatballs. Transfer to serving plates and garnish generously with fresh basil.
# Handy Cooking Tips:
01 -
For extra tenderness, avoid overmixing the turkey mixture and shape the meatballs gently.
02 -
Pasta water can be reserved and added to the sauce for a silkier finish.