This recipe brings together the heartiness of turkey, the freshness of spinach, and the melted goodness of cheese to create a delicious and nutritious meatball. The flavors blend perfectly to provide a balanced and satisfying meal. The meatballs can be made ahead and frozen for quick and easy meals.
Most of the ingredients like ground turkey, turkey sausage, mozzarella, and Parmigiano-Reggiano are easily available in any supermarket. However, keep an eye out for the Italian seasoned bread crumbs and marinara sauce. These ingredients add the much needed Italian flavors to the meatballs, making them even more delicious.
Turkey, Spinach and Cheese Meatballs Ingredients
Extra virgin olive oil: Used for greasing and also adds to the flavor.
Large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
Baby spinach: Provides a nutritious punch.
Scallions: Adds a mild onion flavor.
Garlic: Enhances the taste.
Ground turkey: Lean protein that forms the base of the meatballs.
Italian turkey sausage: Adds flavor and texture.
Mozzarella: Melts beautifully and adds a cheesy goodness.
Parmigiano Reggiano: Adds a rich and nutty flavor.
Italian seasoned bread crumbs: Helps hold the meatballs together and adds an Italian flavor.
Marinara sauce: Used to simmer the meatballs, infusing them with a great tomato flavor.
One reader, Kristan Noll says:
This turkey, spinach, and cheese meatballs recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, and the spinach and cheese add a delightful twist. It's a hit with my family and has become a regular on our dinner menu. Highly recommended!
Techniques for Making Juicy and Flavorful Meatballs
How to preheat the broiler and set an oven rack: Preheat the broiler and set an oven rack on the second-highest level. This will ensure the meatballs cook evenly and achieve a golden brown color on top.
How to line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil and grease with olive oil: Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil and grease it with olive oil to prevent the meatballs from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
How to beat the egg and combine with the chopped spinach, scallions, and garlic: In a large bowl, beat the egg and then add the chopped spinach, scallions, and garlic. Stir until the ingredients are evenly combined to ensure a uniform distribution of flavors in the meatballs.
How to mix the ground turkey, turkey sausage, mozzarella, parmigiano-reggiano, and bread crumbs until evenly combined: Use your hands to mix the ground turkey, turkey sausage, mozzarella, parmigiano-reggiano, and bread crumbs until they are evenly combined. This will help to ensure that the meatballs have a consistent texture and flavor.
How to shape the mixture into 1-1/2 inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet: Take portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-1/2 inch balls, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. This step ensures that the meatballs are uniform in size and cook evenly.
How to broil the meatballs until golden brown on top: Broil the meatballs until they achieve a golden brown color on top, which should take about 10 minutes. This will give the meatballs a delicious, caramelized exterior.
How to heat the tomato sauce in a large pan on the stovetop: Heat the tomato sauce in a large pan on the stovetop to prepare it for adding the broiled meatballs.
How to add the broiled meatballs to the heated tomato sauce and simmer over low heat: Add the broiled meatballs to the heated tomato sauce and simmer over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked. This step allows the flavors to meld and ensures that the meatballs are thoroughly cooked.
How to freeze the meatballs in their sauce for up to 3 months: The meatballs can be frozen in their sauce for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat the meatballs in their sauce on the stovetop over medium heat until hot in the center.
How To Make Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs
With spinach, ground turkey, and turkey sausage, these cheese meatballs make tender and hearty meat that takes less than an hour to make!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 1large egg
- 3ozbaby spinach,(3½ cups whole and 1½ cups chopped)
- 3scallions,white and green parts, finely sliced
- 3garlic cloves,minced
- 1¼lbsground turkey
- 1¼lbsItalian turkey sausage,removed from the casings
- 1cupmozzarella
- ⅓cupparmigiano reggiano,grated, plus more for serving
- ½cupItalian seasoned bread crumbs
- 24ozmarinara sauce,(1 jar)
Instructions
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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.
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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.
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Add the ground turkey, turkey sausage, mozzarella, Parmigiano-Reggiano and bread crumbs. Using your hands, mix until evenly combined.
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Shape the mixture into 1½ inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
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Broil the meatballs for about 10 minutes until golden brown on top.
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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.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 101.11kcal
- Fat: 5.29g
- Saturated Fat: 1.69g
- Trans Fat: 0.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.86g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.14g
- Carbohydrates: 3.55g
- Fiber: 0.60g
- Sugar: 1.47g
- Protein: 9.58g
- Cholesterol: 37.94mg
- Sodium: 282.29mg
- Calcium: 60.38mg
- Potassium: 198.01mg
- Iron: 0.86mg
- Vitamin A: 40.54µg
- Vitamin C: 2.06mg
Pro Tip for Perfectly Shaped Meatballs
When forming your meatballs, try not to pack them too tightly. This can result in a denser, tougher texture. Instead, gently roll the mixture between your palms, applying just enough pressure to hold the shape. This will help to keep your meatballs tender and juicy.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Turkey, Spinach and Cheese Meatballs
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly and evenly chop the spinach, scallions, and garlic.
Bake instead of broil: Consider baking the meatballs instead of broiling for a hands-off cooking method.
Double the batch: Make a larger batch and freeze half for a future quick and easy meal.
Pre-made sauce: Opt for pre-made marinara sauce to cut down on prep time.
One-pan cooking: Cook the meatballs directly in the sauce to save time on cleaning multiple pans.
Cook in advance: Prepare the meatballs in advance and reheat when ready to serve for a time-saving meal option.
Use a scoop: Utilize a cookie scoop to portion the meat mixture for evenly sized meatballs.
Substitute Ingredients For Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs Recipe
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil.
baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for baby spinach, providing a similar texture and nutritional value.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for scallions, offering a mild onion flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, providing a milder, sweeter flavor.
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken can be used as a substitute for ground turkey, offering a similar lean protein option.
italian turkey sausage - Substitute with chicken sausage: Chicken sausage can be used as a substitute for Italian turkey sausage, providing a flavorful alternative.
mozzarella - Substitute with provolone: Provolone cheese can be used as a substitute for mozzarella, offering a similar mild flavor and melting properties.
parmigiano reggiano - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmigiano Reggiano, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor.
italian seasoned bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, offering a light and crispy texture.
marinara sauce - Substitute with arrabbiata sauce: Arrabbiata sauce can be used as a substitute for marinara sauce, adding a spicy kick to the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Turkey, Spinach and Cheese Meatballs
Elevate the plating: Arrange the meatballs in a circular pattern on a large, white, round plate. Place a small dollop of marinara sauce in the center of the plate and carefully position the meatballs around it, creating a visually appealing and appetizing display.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and basil to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the overall presentation.
Create height and dimension: Stack the meatballs in a pyramid shape, allowing them to stand upright on the plate. This adds a sense of drama and sophistication to the dish, making it visually striking.
Use contrasting colors: Pair the meatballs with a vibrant green side dish, such as a spinach salad or steamed asparagus, to create a visually appealing contrast on the plate.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a few delicate edible flowers as a final touch to the plate, enhancing its visual appeal and adding a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Meatballs
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and broiling.
Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for covering and lining pans.
Bowl: A round, deep dish used for mixing and holding ingredients.
Pan: A flat-bottomed utensil used for cooking or baking.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.
Stovetop: The top cooking surface of a stove, where pots and pans are placed for cooking.
Oven rack: A metal frame inside an oven used to hold and cook food.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for making sauces and heating liquids.
Mixing bowl: A large, deep bowl used for combining ingredients.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan with sloping sides, used for frying and sautéing.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Meatballs
Once the meatballs are cooked, allow them to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can lead to freezer burn or spoilage.
To store the meatballs in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container along with the marinara sauce. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freezing is the best option. To freeze the meatballs:
- Place the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the meatballs are frozen solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are fully covered.
- Label the container with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer.
Frozen turkey, spinach, and cheese meatballs will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen meatballs, you can either:
- Place the frozen meatballs and sauce in a saucepan and reheat over medium heat until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is simmering.
- Place the frozen meatballs and sauce in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is hot.
Pro tip: Freeze the meatballs in smaller portions so you can easily reheat only what you need for a quick and easy meal.
How To Reheat Leftover Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover meatballs in an oven-safe dish and cover with marinara sauce or tomato sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through. This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the meatballs from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the turkey meatballs in the microwave. Place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to stir the meatballs halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you prefer a crispy exterior on your reheated meatballs, you can use the broiler. Preheat your broiler to high and place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Broil the meatballs for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover meatballs and marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Cover the pan and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through. This method allows you to easily control the temperature and prevent the meatballs from drying out.
If you have frozen your leftover turkey, spinach, and cheese meatballs, it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Once thawed, you can use any of the above methods to reheat the meatballs. If you're in a pinch, you can reheat frozen meatballs directly in the oven or on the stovetop, but it will take longer, and you'll need to ensure they are heated through before serving.
Interesting Fact About Meatballs
The turkey, spinach, and cheese meatballs recipe is a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your meal. Spinach is a rich source of iron, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood cells. It also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate. This recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthy twist.
Is Making Meatballs at Home Cost-Effective?
This turkey, spinach, and cheese meatballs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground turkey and spinach are affordable and nutritious, while the addition of cheese adds flavor without breaking the bank. The use of turkey sausage and mozzarella might slightly increase the cost, but the overall price is reasonable. With an estimated cost of $20-25 for a household of 4, this recipe offers a delicious and budget-friendly option. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its affordability and taste.
Are These Meatballs Healthy or Unhealthy?
This turkey, spinach, and cheese meatball recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients like spinach, garlic, and lean ground turkey. Turkey is a good source of protein, while spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals. The recipe also uses a combination of mozzarella and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheeses, which can provide calcium and other beneficial nutrients.
However, there are some areas where the recipe could be improved to make it healthier:
- The recipe calls for Italian turkey sausage, which may be higher in fat and sodium compared to plain ground turkey. Opting for a leaner sausage or using only ground turkey could reduce the overall fat content.
- The breadcrumbs add carbohydrates and may be high in sodium, depending on the brand used. Consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs or a gluten-free alternative like almond meal to increase the fiber content and reduce the sodium levels.
- The marinara sauce may also be a source of added sugar and sodium. Choosing a low-sodium, no-added-sugar variety or making your own sauce from scratch using fresh tomatoes can help control these aspects.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, you could:
- Increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like grated zucchini or finely chopped bell peppers to the meatball mixture. This will boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the dish.
- Use a combination of whole milk and part-skim mozzarella to reduce the overall fat content while still maintaining a satisfying cheese flavor.
- Serve the meatballs with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad to add more nutrients and balance out the meal.
- Experiment with herbs and spices like basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes to add flavor without relying on salt.
Editor's Opinion on This Meatball Recipe
This turkey, spinach, and cheese meatballs recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground turkey, Italian turkey sausage, and cheeses creates a rich and savory profile, while the addition of spinach adds a pop of freshness. The broiling method adds a lovely golden crust to the meatballs, enhancing their visual appeal and texture. The freezer-friendly option makes it a convenient choice for meal prep. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and versatile option for a comforting meal.
Why trust this Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs Recipe:
This recipe offers a perfect balance of turkey and spinach, providing a nutritious and flavorful meal. The combination of mozzarella and parmigiano reggiano adds a rich and creamy texture, while the use of italian turkey sausage infuses the meatballs with authentic Italian flavors. The inclusion of garlic and scallions enhances the aromatic profile, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The marinara sauce ties everything together, creating a harmonious blend of savory and tangy notes. With carefully selected ingredients and meticulous preparation, this recipe guarantees a delightful and satisfying culinary experience.
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