Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Name: Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup milk; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I've always loved the comfort of a great pasta dish, and what's better than turkey meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce? This recipe is dear to my heart, as it combines lean turkey with savory herbs, creating a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The moment the meatballs are formed and the sauce begins to bubble, my kitchen is filled with an aroma that brings everyone together. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-21T21:10:18.579Z

When I first tried making turkey meatballs, I was skeptical about how flavorful they would be compared to traditional beef. After experimenting with different herbs and spices, I discovered that a mix of oregano, garlic, and Parmesan added a delightful depth, making these meatballs absolutely irresistible. The turkey stays moist thanks to a little milk and breadcrumbs, which really helps in achieving the perfect texture.

One day, I decided to serve these meatballs with homemade marinara sauce, and the combination was a hit! I learned that simmering the meatballs in the sauce really allows them to soak up the rich flavors. If you want to save time, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Just pop them in the sauce when you’re ready for a delicious meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy turkey meatballs bursting with flavor
Rich marinara sauce that perfectly complements the meat
Healthy twist on classic meatballs without sacrificing taste

The Importance of Ingredient Quality

Using high-quality ground turkey is essential for achieving juicy meatballs. Look for lean ground turkey that still has a bit of fat, around 93% lean to 7% fat, which will help keep the meatballs moist during cooking. If you opt for a leaner turkey, consider adding a splash more milk or some olive oil to maintain moisture levels.

Fresh herbs, especially parsley, significantly elevate the flavor profile of these meatballs. Dried herbs can be a convenient substitute, but nothing compares to the vibrant taste of fresh. If you don't have fresh parsley on hand, consider using fresh basil instead, which also complements the marinara sauce nicely.

Perfecting the Marinara Sauce

When making your marinara sauce, sautéing the onions until they are just translucent enhances their sweetness and builds flavor. If you find the sauce too acidic after adding the crushed tomatoes, a pinch of sugar can balance the tartness effectively. Remember to taste as you go; seasoning is crucial at every step.

For a richer flavor, consider simmering the sauce for a longer period, around 30-40 minutes. This additional time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you're pressed for time, a 20-minute simmer is adequate, but your sauce will be more robust with prolonged cooking.

Serving and Storing Tips

These turkey meatballs in marinara sauce pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve them atop al dente spaghetti or nestle them in a crusty sub roll for a satisfying meatball sandwich. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh basil over the top just before serving can add an inviting look.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you have more than you can eat, freeze the cooked meatballs in the marinara sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, gently simmer the sauce on the stovetop or microwave until hot throughout, ensuring the meatballs remain tender.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Meatballs

1 pound ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Form into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.

Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, carefully place meatballs in the skillet and brown on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.

Make the Marinara Sauce

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Simmer the Meatballs

Carefully return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are cooked through and have absorbed the sauce flavors.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the meatballs sit in the sauce after cooking for an additional 10 minutes. This allows them to soak in more of the delicious sauce.

Common Troubleshooting

If your meatballs are coming out too dry, it could be due to overmixing. Mix the ingredients just until they're combined to prevent tightening the protein structure. If they are falling apart during cooking, try adding a bit more breadcrumb or a splash of milk to bind them better before shaping.

On the other hand, if your meatballs seem dense, this might indicate they were packed too tightly. When forming, handle the mixture gently and loosely, which will result in a lighter, airier texture post-cooking.

Flavor Variations

To switch things up, consider incorporating finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or grated zucchini, into your meatball mixture. Not only do they add moisture, but they also boost the nutritional content. Just be cautious not to add too much, as excess moisture can make it difficult for the meatballs to hold their shape.

For a twist on the sauce, you can experiment with adding red wine or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the marinara before simmering. This addition deepens the sauce's flavor and adds an interesting complexity that pairs wonderfully with the turkey.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, pork, or chicken if you prefer.

→ How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatball mixture.

→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with the meatballs?

These meatballs are delicious served over spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or on their own with a sprinkle of fresh basil.