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Easy Quick Baked Turkey Meatballs with Marinara Sauce

If you're looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner option, then this Easy Quick Baked Turkey Meatballs with Marinara Sauce recipe is perfect for you. These turkey meatballs are baked to perfection, making them a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version. The juicy and tender meatballs are packed with flavor and pair wonderfully with the rich and savory marinara sauce. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or meal prepping for the week, this Easy Quick Baked Turkey Meatballs with Marinara Sauce recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a wholesome and satisfying meal. Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create this delicious Easy Quick Baked Turkey Meatballs with Marinara Sauce.
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Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Ingredients
  

  • For the Turkey Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • For the Marinara Sauce:
  • 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with non-stick cooking spray.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
  • Brush the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown and stay moist.
  • Bake the Meatballs:
  • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
  • While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
  • Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  • Combine and Serve:
  • Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and carefully transfer them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce using tongs.
  • Gently stir to coat the meatballs with the sauce.
  • Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  • Serve the meatballs and marinara sauce hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
  • Tips for Cooking
  • For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the marinara sauce while it simmers.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or the marinara sauce.
  • These meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen for up to three months. Simply bake and let them cool completely before freezing.
  • Serve the meatballs over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.