Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
In short: Tender turkey meatballs flavored with garlic, parsley and Parmesan, simmered in a simple tomato sauce. Serve with pasta, rice or crusty bread. It takes about 55 min in total and makes 4 servings.
- Prep
- 25 min
- Cook
- 30 min
- Total
- 55 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 430 kcal
Turkey meatballs can be tender instead of dry if the mixture includes a panade, which is breadcrumbs soaked in milk. The panade holds moisture in the meat as it cooks. Garlic, parsley, Parmesan and a little oregano give flavor, and the meatballs finish cooking gently in a simple tomato sauce so they stay soft. Make a double batch: they reheat well and freeze beautifully, and they suit pasta, rice, mash or a sub roll.
Instructions
- Stir the breadcrumbs and milk together in a large bowl and leave for 5 minutes until soaked.
- Add the turkey, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
- Shape into about 20 meatballs, each about 4 cm (1 1/2 inches) wide, using damp hands to keep the mixture from sticking.
- Heat the oil in a wide, deep skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion for 4 minutes until soft, then add the garlic and chili flakes for 30 seconds.
- Add the tomatoes, salt and sugar, if using, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the meatballs into the sauce one at a time. Cover and simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, turning once, until firm and 74°C (165°F) in the center.
- Tear basil over the top and serve with pasta, rice or crusty bread.
Tips
- For more flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet for 5 minutes first, then simmer them in the sauce for 15 minutes. Skipping the browning gives the softest texture.
- Use a mix of dark and light turkey meat if you can. Meatballs made from very lean turkey are drier.
Questions and answers
Can I bake the meatballs instead of simmering them?
Yes. Bake them on a lined tray at 200°C (400°F) for 15 to 18 minutes, then add them to the warm sauce for 5 minutes.
Can I freeze turkey meatballs?
Yes. Freeze them cooked in the sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
What can I serve turkey meatballs with?
Spaghetti, rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a toasted roll with melted cheese all work well.
How long does it take to make Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce?
About 55 min in total: 25 min of preparation and 30 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce?
About 430 kcal per serving, with 36 g of protein, 22 g of carbohydrates and 22 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 430 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 36 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 11 g |
| Sodium | 1400 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
