Zesty Turkey and Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Spinach Rigatoni
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these Zesty Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs served on a bed of Garlic Spinach Rigatoni. This flavorful and nutritious dish is a hit for families and makes for delightful leftovers. Bursting with fresh ingredients and zesty flavors, it’s the perfect way to combine comfort with health. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe brings a lot to the table—a delicious blend of ground turkey spiced up with ricotta, complemented by a luscious pasta tossed with garlic and spinach. You’ll appreciate how quick it comes together, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Plus, the combination of protein-rich turkey and creamy ricotta ensures that your meal is satisfying yet lighter than traditional meatball recipes.
Pro Tips for Making Zesty Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Spinach Rigatoni
1. Choose the Right Turkey: Opt for 93% lean ground turkey for a balance of flavor and moisture. This will help your meatballs stay juicy without being oily.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables amplify the flavors. Opt for freshly chopped parsley and spinach whenever possible.
3. Adjust Spices: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some extra red pepper flakes into the pasta mixture or incorporate some into the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
4. Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix gently to prevent the meatballs from becoming tough.
5. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before cooking, or even freeze them for a quick weeknight dinner later!
Ingredients
This recipe requires a few simple ingredients that pack a punch in flavor:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Extra Parmesan, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the 1 lb ground turkey, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 large egg. Ensure these ingredients are well combined for a uniformly flavored meatball mixture.
Step 2: Gradually fold in 1 cup breadcrumbs, along with 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overdo it. This is key to keeping the meatballs tender.
Step 3: Use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs roughly 1 inch in diameter. Set these aside as you heat up your pan.
Step 4: Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs in batches. Cook them until evenly browned on all sides and fully cooked through, approximately 10-12 minutes. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: While the meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 12 oz rigatoni according to package directions. Remember to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 6: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add in the 3 cloves of sliced garlic and, if desired, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds.
Step 7: Add in the 4 cups of fresh spinach and cook until wilted, seasoning with salt and pepper as you go. This will only take a few minutes.
Step 8: Toss the cooked rigatoni into the pan with the garlic and spinach. Pour in the reserved pasta water, mixing everything well until the pasta is coated and heated through.
Step 9: To serve, place a generous portion of the garlic spinach rigatoni on plates, top with turkey meatballs, and finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your zesty dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes! You can substitute ground chicken or beef if preferred. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different meat types.
2. Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or ground oats to keep the recipe gluten-free.
3. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs. Just allow them to cool fully before placing them in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is great on its own, but you can pair it with a green salad, garlic bread, or a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
These Zesty Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Spinach Rigatoni are a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s also light and fresh. With each bite packed with flavor and a nutritious twist, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in regular rotation. Enjoy crafting this culinary delight in your kitchen and share the experience with family or friends!
