Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs are a wonderful option for a cozy weeknight dinner. They’re rich and creamy, packed with fresh flavors, and super easy to make. This dish brings together tender meatballs with a luscious sauce, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Serve them over pasta or alongside some crusty bread for a meal that feels like a warm hug.
Why You Will Love This Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
This recipe is not only tasty but also simple to prepare. It uses everyday ingredients, so you probably have most of them at home already. Cooking these meatballs takes less time than you might think, making it perfect for busy nights. Plus, they are a great way to sneak in some veggies!
How to Make Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
Making these meatballs is a straightforward process. You’ll combine the ingredients in a bowl, shape them into balls, and cook them until golden. The sauce comes together quickly in the same skillet, saving you clean-up time. It’s a hassle-free way to create a delicious meal.
What You Need
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for a few minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, until cooked through.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are delicious served over spaghetti or any pasta you love. You can also pair them with a light salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. For a cozy dinner, serve with warm bread to soak up that creamy sauce. They would also shine at casual gatherings or family dinners.
How to Store Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can freeze the meatballs before cooking, or after they’re cooked in the sauce. Just make sure to cool them completely before wrapping. When ready to eat, reheat them on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Recipe Tips
- Make sure to thoroughly mix the meatball ingredients for even flavor.
- If you find the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; don’t hesitate to add more Italian seasoning if you love that herby flavor.
- Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option, but keep an eye on cooking time as they may dry out.
- These meatballs freeze well, so you can double the recipe and save some for later!
Variations & Swaps
- Substitute ground chicken or beef for the turkey if you prefer.
- For a meat-free option, try using a plant-based ground “meat.”
- Add some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies in the meatballs.
- Use homemade or store-bought marinara sauce instead of cream for a tomato-based dish.
- Mix in some mozzarella cheese for gooey melty bites in your meatballs.
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs and simply cook them when you’re ready.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be frozen. Just place them in an airtight container after cooling and they should keep well for about 2-3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
Reheat the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if they seem dry. You can also microwave them if you’re in a hurry, just be sure to cover them.
Can I swap out the spinach?
Yes, you can use kale or even finely chopped broccoli in place of spinach, depending on what you have on hand.
What should I serve with these meatballs?
Pasta is a classic choice, but you can also serve them with rice, bread, or a light salad. They make a great filling for sandwiches too!
Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped You can use kale or finely chopped broccoli as a substitute.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Optional for garnish.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs Add more if the mixture is too wet.
- 1 egg Helps bind the ingredients together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adjust to taste.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season as preferred.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream Provides creaminess to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For frying the meatballs.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for a few minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, until cooked through.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
