How to Make the Perfect Mini Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Italian · Medium · 55 min · 6 servings
These tender mini turkey meatballs are simmered in a robust homemade tomato sauce and frozen in sauce for incredible results upon reheating. They are endlessly versatile, perfect served over pasta, in a sub roll, or alongside vegetables.
Why this recipe works
This Mini Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 55 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 290 calories with 26g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 lbs ground turkey
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg beaten
- 3 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Form the Meatballs
In a large bowl combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, half the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix. Roll into small 1 inch balls and place on a baking sheet.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning them gently, for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden on the outside. They do not need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
Step 3: Simmer in Sauce
In the same skillet saute the remaining garlic for 30 seconds then add the crushed tomatoes. Stir and bring to a simmer. Return all the browned meatballs to the sauce, cover, and cook on low for 20 to 25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.
Step 4: Cool and Freeze
Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely. Transfer into freezer-safe bags or containers with the sauce surrounding the meatballs to keep them moist during storage. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- breadcrumbs → almond flour or oat flour for a gluten-free binder
- ground turkey → ground beef or ground pork for a richer meatball
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overmixing the meatball mixture which causes the proteins to tighten and results in tough dense meatballs
- Freezing the meatballs without sauce which causes them to dry out significantly during storage and reheating
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 290 calories, 26g protein, 18g carbs, 11g fat, 3g fiber.
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