Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs
Try this Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs recipe
Try this Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs recipe
- 1 large egg
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 3 ounces baby spinach chopped (3-1/2 cups whole; 1-1/2 cups chopped)
- 3 scallions, white and green parts finely sliced
- 1.25 pounds 93/7 ground turkey (i use shady brook farms)
- 1.25 pounds italian turkey sausage removed from the casings (i use shady brook farms)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (preferably whole milk but low
- 1/3 cup grated parmigiano reggiano plus more for serving
- 1 (24 oz ) jar marinara sauce homemade or good quality store-bought
- Carbohydrate 2.8967994968974 g
- Cholesterol 22.0443171187168 mg
- Fat 2.37921507100176 g
- Fiber 0.251602288779426 g
- Protein 4.73046323314666 g
- Saturated Fat 0.66010831271447 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (47g)
- Sodium 195.963804868334 mg
- Sugar 2.64519720811797 g
- Trans Fat 0.286424474853599 g
- Calories 53 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the broiler and set an oven rack on the second-highest rack.
- Line a baking sheet with heavy duty aluminum foil and grease with the olive oil.
- In a bowl large enough to hold all of the ingredients, beat the egg.
- Add the chopped spinach, scallions, and garlic and stir until evenly combined.
- Add the ground turkey, turkey sausage, mozzarella, Parmigiano-Reggiano and bread crumbs.
- Using your hands, mix until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-1/2 inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Broil the meatballs until golden brown on top, about 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat the tomato sauce in a large pan on the stovetop.
- Add the broiled meatballs and simmer over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked.
My Simple Weeknight Delight: Turkey, Spinach, and Cheese Meatballs
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious meal can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Balancing work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping up with a family's ever-changing needs can leave me feeling overwhelmed and craving simplicity. That's why I've become a master at creating quick, nutritious recipes that the whole family will love – and this Turkey, Spinach, and Cheese Meatball recipe is a perfect example.
These meatballs aren't your average, heavy meatball recipe. They're lighter, healthier, and surprisingly easy to make, even on the busiest of weeknights. The combination of lean ground turkey and turkey sausage adds a delicious savory flavor without being overly heavy. The spinach sneaks in some extra nutrients, and the cheese? Well, let’s be honest, cheese makes everything better! I often use whole milk mozzarella for that extra creamy richness, but low-fat options work just as well if you prefer.
The secret to the quick preparation time is keeping things simple. No complex sauces, no intricate chopping techniques; just a straightforward process designed to get a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The broiling adds a nice touch of char, providing a slight crispiness to the meatballs that balances beautifully with the soft, simmered tomato sauce. And the best part? It's a recipe that’s easily adaptable. Feeling adventurous? Try adding some sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs. Want to make it a complete meal? Serve it over a bed of zoodles, spaghetti squash, or even just a simple side salad.
This isn't just a meal; it’s a feeling. It's the feeling of coming home to a warm, comforting aroma, knowing that a healthy, delicious meal awaits. It’s the feeling of sharing a meal with loved ones, the laughter and conversation that make even the most hectic day feel a little bit brighter. It’s a testament to how simple acts of cooking and sharing can add so much richness to our lives.
Beyond the ease of preparation and deliciousness of the meal, this recipe represents so much more. It represents my commitment to feeding my family healthy and satisfying food, even when time is scarce. It represents the joy I find in the kitchen, a space that's become more than just a place to cook; it's a haven of creativity, connection, and love. It's a reminder to prioritize what truly matters – good food, good company, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious for those I cherish most.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a little heat.
- Herby goodness: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley for added flavor.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like parmesan or provolone.
- Make it a one-pan meal: Roast the meatballs alongside vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a complete and easy meal.
- Serve it up: These meatballs are delicious served with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, polenta, or even on their own.
This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients; it's a testament to the power of simple cooking, the joy of sharing food with loved ones, and the importance of nourishing ourselves and those we care about.
