1. Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, parsley (or basil), egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cook Meatballs: Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven and set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Combine Meatballs and Sauce
- Add Meatballs: Gently add the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
- Simmer: Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb some of the flavors.
4. Serve
- Garnish: Garnish with additional chopped parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve: Serve the creamy spinach turkey meatballs over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Success
- Spinach: Make sure to finely chop the spinach to distribute it evenly throughout the meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs: You can use plain or whole wheat breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers if you prefer.
- Creamy Sauce: For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Variations
- Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Veggies: Incorporate other finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
Conclusion
Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs offer a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food. The combination of lean turkey, nutrient-packed spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. Perfect for a family meal or meal prep, these meatballs are sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness of this delightful recipe!