Baked Turkey Ricotta Meatballs in Basil Tomato Sauce -

Baked Turkey Ricotta Meatballs in Basil Tomato Sauce is a delightful twist on classic meatballs, combining lean turkey with creamy ricotta and fresh basil. This recipe offers a delicious, healthy dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, polenta, or simply a slice of crusty bread. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Turkey Ricotta Meatballs recipe is not just a satisfying meal; it also focuses on wholesome ingredients. Ground turkey is a lean protein choice, and ricotta adds creaminess with lower calories compared to traditional fatty meats. The addition of basil infuses the dish with refreshing, aromatic flavors, making it a family favorite. Plus, baking the meatballs rather than frying them significantly reduces the fat content while enhancing their tenderness.

Ingredients

To prepare these mouth-watering meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan

1/3 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or 1 tsp dried
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara sauce or homemade basil tomato sauce
Olive oil spray or drizzle for baking

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect meatballs:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper until just combined.
Step 3: Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in size, and place them on the lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Lightly spray or drizzle the meatballs with olive oil.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and cooked through.
Step 6: While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Step 7: Once the meatballs are done, carefully add them to the simmering marinara sauce and let them cook for an additional 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 8: Serve the meatballs over pasta, polenta, or with crusty bread. Garnish with extra basil and shredded Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Turkey Ricotta Meatballs

For extra flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the meatball mixture.

Use fresh herbs when possible, as they provide a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs.
Ensure your meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

Let leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.

How do I ensure my meatballs are moist?

Adding ricotta cheese not only adds flavor but also moisture. Avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough meatballs.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them overnight or freeze them for longer storage.

What should I serve with baked turkey ricotta meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with pasta, polenta, or simply served with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Baked Turkey Ricotta Meatballs in Basil Tomato Sauce is an easy and satisfying recipe that brings together quality ingredients for a healthy and flavorful meal. With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or a weekend family dinner. Try it out today, and enjoy a delicious, nutritious dinner that will impress even the pickiest eaters!