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Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs Recipe

Description

If you’re in the mood for something hearty yet light, these Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs are a total winner! Bursting with Italian flavors, each bite is a delightful blend of savory ground turkey, creamy melted cheese, and the vibrant pop of fresh spinach. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, these meatballs pack a punch without heavy cream. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you’ll wonder why you didn’t whip them up sooner. Imagine the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen, making everyone crave a plate full of these tender meatballs. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)

These Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs are a perfect mix of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. They’re cozy enough for a family meal yet simple enough to whip up any night of the week. What makes them special? They’re wonderfully creamy without any heavy ingredients!

Here’s why you’ll adore them:

Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful texture: The blend of ground turkey with cheesy goodness provides a satisfying bite.
Pantry-friendly: Most ingredients are likely already in your kitchen!
Meal prep hero: Make a batch for the week and enjoy them in different dishes.
Dietary-friendly: A lighter alternative that still feels indulgent, suitable for various diets.

Ingredients for Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs

Main Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – This adds a rich flavor and helps keep meatballs juicy.
1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together for a perfect texture.
3 ounces baby spinach, chopped – Supports a healthy spin with vibrant color and nutrients.
3 scallions, finely sliced – Provides a mild, oniony flavor that brightens the mix.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the meatballs with a warm, aromatic flavor.
1.25 pounds ground turkey – The lean protein base keeps these meatballs light.
1.25 pounds Italian turkey sausage, removed from casings – Adds that classic Italian sausage flavor without too much fat.
1 cup shredded mozzarella – Melts beautifully and adds that creamy, cheesy goodness.
1/3 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano – A punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs – Provides texture and helps absorb moisture.
1 jar marinara sauce (24 ounces) – For serving and dipping, giving a rich tomato flavor.

Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.

How to Make Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs

Phase 1 – Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, Italian sausage, chopped spinach, scallions, minced garlic, egg, mozzarella, and bread crumbs. Mix until just blended.
Form into about 16 meatballs, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble

Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Meanwhile, warm the marinara sauce in a pot over low heat.

Phase 3 – Serve

Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and pour warm marinara sauce over them.
Garnish with extra cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Serve hot with your favorite sides, like pasta or garlic bread!

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Swap it up: Use ground chicken for a different flavor profile.
Technique improvement: Use a scoop to ensure your meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
Time saver: Prepare the meatball mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it to deepen the flavors.
Bake on a rack: Elevate the meatballs while baking to allow fat to drain off for lighter meatballs.
Cheese surprise: Add a small cube of mozzarella in the center of each meatball for a gooey surprise.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overmixing the meatball mixture, which can make them tough. Since you only need to combine the ingredients until they’re just blended, try not to overwork the meat.

Another issue is undercooking. Always ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe. Consider using a meat thermometer for accurate results.

Sometimes, meatballs can fall apart in the sauce. If this happens, try chilling them for about 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape better.

Recipe Variations

Gluten-free: Swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Spicy: Mix in some red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a kick.
Herbal: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be mixed in for added flavor.

How to Serve Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs

Best Pairings: Serve them with spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or a big fresh salad.
Toppings & Garnishes: Add fresh basil, grated Parmesan, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Drink Pairing: A light red wine, like Pinot Noir, or a refreshing sparkling water complements the meal beautifully.

Make Ahead & Storage

Can I Meal Prep This?

Yes! These meatballs are perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store them for the week.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze meatballs in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe container to keep them from sticking together. They’ll last about 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For microwave, heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the mixture.

How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Adding more cheese, like ricotta, or using a cream cheese mixture can amp up the creaminess.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a large bowl for mixing and space out the meatballs on your baking sheet.

How to fix a too-thick sauce?
Add a splash of water or broth to thin it out, stirring until you reach the desired consistency.

Enjoy these Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs that are sure to be a hit with your family and friends! They’re creamy, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to leave a comment about your experience or check out more delicious recipes on our site!