Meatballs are a great comfort food worldwide but often contain many calories and saturated fats when made with beef or pork. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor, Healthy turkey meatballs are the way to go!
These tender, juicy, and flavor-packed turkey meatballs are a delicious option for a satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling guilty. I will walk you through an easy-to-follow recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.
What are the benefits of eating turkey?
Eating ground organic turkey offers a range of health benefits, including being a lean source of protein, low in saturated fat, and free from antibiotics and synthetic hormones. Additionally, it supports more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
- Lean Protein: Ground organic turkey is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall health. It’s a particularly good option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake while keeping their saturated fat and calorie consumption in check.
- Low in Saturated Fat: Compared to ground beef, ground turkey, especially if it’s organic and lean, contains significantly less saturated fat. This makes it a heart-healthy choice, as a diet low in saturated fats reduces the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular issues.
- Reduced Antibiotics and Hormones: Organic turkey is raised without antibiotics or synthetic hormones, commonly given to conventionally raised livestock.
Here is more information on the health benefits of eating turkey. Click here to learn more.
How do you keep the meatballs from falling apart?
You can bind the mixture with one egg and bread crumbs. This technique helps the meatballs stay in their place. You can also refrigerate them afterward for a stronger hold.
These turkey meatballs are a fantastic way to enjoy the comforting taste of meatballs without the guilt associated with traditional beef or pork versions. Packed with lean protein, fresh herbs, and veggies, they’re a healthier option without skimping flavor.
Serve them over thin spaghetti, whole wheat pasta, or with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Try this recipe, and watch your family love these delicious turkey meatballs!
Healthy Turkey Meatballs
Equipment
- 2 Cutting boards
- 1 Chef Knife
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Small bowl
- 1 Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- 2 Tongs Large and Small
- Measuring cups
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb 93% lean & 7% fat Ground Turkey Organic (preferably)
- 1/2 cup Yellow Onion Diced Small
- 1/3 cup Red Bell Peppers Diced Small
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced
- 4 sprigs Fresh Thyme Roughly Chopped
- 1 Egg Beaten
- 1/3 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
- 1/3 cup Fresh Parmesan Cheese Grated on Rasp
- Kosher salt To Taste
- Fresh Cracked Pepper To Taste
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
- 1 24 oz Jar of Marinara Sauce Good Quality Sauce
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in the mixing bowl. Use your clean hands to mix all the ingredients. Use your hands to grab a small to medium-sized amount of ground turkey mixture and use both hands to form a ball. Do the same to the rest of the mixture. Try to keep all meatballs the same size so they can cook evenly.
- Place the meatballs on the baking sheet covered with parchment. Make sure the meatballs are separated from each other and not touching. You can start cooking them immediately or place the baking sheet with meatballs in the fridge for 15-30 mins.
- Add the vegetable oil to the hot skillet and wait for the oil to get hot. When the oil is hot, put the meatballs in the skillet and make sure they have enough space and are not crowding each other.
- Cook for 3 mins on each side. Continue to cook all sides until the meatballs are golden brown. Take the meatballs out and place them in a small bowl. Then drain the oil out of the skillet. Be careful while doing this because you can burn yourself. By doing this, it will remove excess oil in the marinara sauce.
- Then add pasta sauce to the skillet and water to the jar to remove the rest. Stir together and make sure the sauce is hot, then put the meatballs back in and cover the skillet with the top. Leave the cover on for 15 mins occasionally turning and adding pasta sauce from the skillet over the top of the meatballs. Cover for another 5-7 minutes. Let rest with the top on for another 2-5 minutes then serve.