Description
These Turkey, Spinach & Cheese Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic meatballs, combining lean turkey, fresh spinach, creamy mozzarella, and savory Parmesan. Broiled to develop a golden crust and then simmered in rich marinara sauce, they make a perfect protein-packed meal ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large egg
- 3 oz baby spinach (3½ cups whole; 1½ cups chopped)
- 3 scallions (white and green parts, thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1¼ lb 93% lean ground turkey (e.g., Shady Brook Farms)
- 1¼ lb Italian turkey sausage (removed from the casings, e.g., Shady Brook Farms)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (preferably whole milk)
- ⅓ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano (plus more for serving)
- ½ cup Italian-style bread crumbs (such as Progresso)
- 1 (24-oz) jar marinara sauce (homemade or high quality like Rao’s)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat the broiler and position an oven rack on the second-highest level. Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil and lightly grease it with the olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the egg thoroughly. Add the chopped spinach, sliced scallions, and minced garlic to the bowl and stir until evenly combined. Next, add the ground turkey, turkey sausage meat, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, and Italian-style bread crumbs. Using your hands, mix all ingredients gently but thoroughly until uniform. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape and broil the meatballs: Form the mixture into meatballs approximately 1½ inches (4 cm) in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Broil the meatballs for about 10 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown and the surface looks nicely caramelized.
- Simmer meatballs in sauce: While the meatballs broil, pour the marinara sauce into a large pan and heat it over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them carefully into the simmering sauce. Allow them to cook gently over low heat for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked through and absorb the sauce’s flavors.
Notes
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- The turkey sausage adds flavor and moisture, so removing the casing is important for uniform mixing.
- Broiling develops a crispy exterior quickly without drying the meatballs out.
- Simmering in marinara ensures meatballs are juicy and flavorful.
- Serve with extra grated Parmigiano Reggiano for added richness.
- These meatballs pair well with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh side salad.