Print

Healthy Turkey Meatballs: Easy Marinara Dinner for Busy Nights

healthy turkey meatballs - featured image
Print Recipe

Juicy, tender turkey meatballs baked and simmered in a vibrant marinara sauce for a comforting, healthy dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family gatherings—classic Italian flavor with a lighter twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
  • 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn (optional garnish)
  • Extra grated parmesan cheese (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, milk, parsley, basil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter). Place evenly on the prepared baking sheet (makes about 16-18 meatballs).
  4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until lightly browned and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F).
  5. While meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Transfer baked meatballs into the simmering marinara sauce. Let cook together for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
  8. Serve meatballs and sauce over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan if desired.

Notes

For gluten-free, use GF breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, substitute nutritional yeast and plant-based milk. Chilling shaped meatballs before baking helps them hold together. Add grated zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition. Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. If sauce is too acidic, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, healthy dinner, marinara, baked meatballs, Italian, weeknight meal, gluten-free option, dairy-free option, meal prep, comfort food

Find it online: https://fuzzyforker.com/healthy-turkey-meatballs-easy-marinara-dinner-for-busy-nights/