turkey ground meat recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best turkey ground meat recipe

I’ve been making this turkey ground meat recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that my kids love, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. The combination of ground turkey, vegetables, and spices creates a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare.

The best part is that it can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or weekends. My family and I enjoy it with a variety of toppings, from classic ketchup and mustard to more adventurous options like avocado and salsa.

One of the things I love about this recipe is the way the flavors meld together – the earthiness of the turkey pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the onions and bell peppers. It’s a true comfort food that never fails to hit the spot.

Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just need a quick dinner solution, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Turkey Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

4.6 from 648 votes

A healthy and flavorful dish featuring turkey ground meat. Served with a rich tomato sauce.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

1 cup tomato sauce
1/2 cup water
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt and black pepper.
3Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
5Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6Drizzle with olive oil.
7Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned.
8Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
9While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.
10In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, water, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil.
11Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
12Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
13Season with salt and pepper to taste.
14Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
15Add the meatballs to the saucepan with the tomato sauce, gently stirring to coat them evenly.
16Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
17Serve the turkey meatballs hot with the tomato sauce.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 4.5g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the meatball mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

This turkey ground meat recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re serving it at home or taking it to a potluck. It’s easy to make ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

When reheating, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Serve with your favorite toppings or try pairing it with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

Q: What is the best way to store leftover turkey ground meat?

A: To keep leftover turkey ground meat fresh for up to 3 days, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.

Q: Can I freeze turkey ground meat for later use?

A: Yes, you can freeze turkey ground meat for up to 3 months. Simply place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.

Q: How do I reheat turkey ground meat safely?

A: To reheat turkey ground meat safely, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop.

Q: Can I use leaner ground turkey than what’s called for in this recipe?

A: While you can use leaner ground turkey if you prefer, keep in mind that it may result in a drier final product. You can also try adding more fat-rich ingredients like olive oil or butter to compensate.

Q: Why do you recommend using fresh herbs instead of dried ones?

A: Fresh herbs offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor than dried herbs, which can become stale over time. If you only have dried herbs on hand, feel free to use them – just be aware that the flavor may not be as robust.

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