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Delicious Skillet Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

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A quick and easy skillet recipe featuring juicy turkey meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (lean)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs using your hands or a small ice cream scoop. Place on a plate or baking sheet.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with onions and garlic. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Nestle meatballs carefully into the simmering sauce, spacing evenly. Cover skillet and simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, turning meatballs halfway through to brown all sides. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove lid and simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes if sauce is too thin.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender. Use panko breadcrumbs for lightness. Brown meatballs gently before simmering to lock in juices. Use a food thermometer to ensure meatballs reach 165°F for safety. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure proper browning. A splatter guard can help prevent sauce splatters.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, skillet meatballs, marinara sauce, easy dinner, quick recipe, weeknight meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/delicious-skillet-turkey-meatballs-in-marinara-sauce-perfect-easy-dinner-recipe/