Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with a healthy twist! Our Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs in Marinara are not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare, making them the perfect weeknight dinner. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether you're feeding a family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering meal in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently form the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. This should yield about 12-14 meatballs.
- Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, making sure each meatball is partially covered in sauce.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs and sauce.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh basil or parsley, and accompanied by pasta or crusty bread.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh herbs and high-quality marinara sauce. If you have time, making your own marinara can elevate the dish even more!
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the ingredients, mix gently to avoid tough meatballs. Just enough mixing to incorporate everything is perfect.
- Uniform Size: Aim for meatballs that are about
- 5 inches in diameter to ensure even cooking. This will help them cook through at the same rate.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to serve.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with your favorite pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 405kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 36g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 134mg
