Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti topped with juicy, herb-infused turkey meatballs simmering in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort meal, adding fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor that will make it a family favorite.
Ground turkey serves as a leaner alternative to beef, absorbing flavors wonderfully. The breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs, while adding a subtle texture. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil not only enhance flavor but bring a touch of color. An egg is used as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold together. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami kick. Garlic introduces a fragrant depth, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper balances the seasoning. For the sauce, onion adds sweetness and texture, while diced tomatoes and tomato paste create a robust base. Finally, the spaghetti acts as the perfect canvas for these flavorful elements.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. A crusty loaf of garlic bread would make an excellent accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce.
Start by gathering all your ingredients for easy access. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, basil, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender. Form into 1.5-inch balls, placing them on a plate as you go.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet, browning them on all sides, which should take about 6–8 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a separate plate.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let them simmer for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
While the meatballs are simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions in salted water. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set aside.
To serve, place a generous portion of spaghetti on each plate, top with the turkey meatballs and sauce, and garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Share