Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the savory richness of ground turkey with the vibrant flavors of pesto and garlic! These Turkey Pesto and Garlic Meatballs are not just a meal; they’re a culinary experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is quick to prepare and promises to impress. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be savoring every bite in no time. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, pesto sauce, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and egg. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, and adjust according to your preference.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- Once all the meatballs are formed, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare any sides you’d like to serve with them, such as pasta, salad, or steamed vegetables.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help them hold their shape when serving.
- Serve the turkey pesto and garlic meatballs warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so mix just until everything is combined.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and high-quality pesto. Fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your meatball mixture before forming them into balls. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking for a more personalized flavor.
- Uniform Size: Try to make your meatballs uniform in size (about 1 to
- 5 inches) to ensure they cook evenly. Using a cookie scoop can help with this.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the meatballs have reached 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 them hold their shape and allows the juices to redistribute.
- Pair with Sides: These meatballs are versatile! Serve them with pasta, a fresh salad, or even as a filling for a sub sandwich for a delightful meal.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese! A generous sprinkle of freshly grated cheese adds a delicious finish to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 345kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 28g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 107mg
