It was time that I posted a classic meatball recipe. Comfort food at its best. That’s why I came up with these easy and delicious turkey marinara meatballs. They have all the makings that go into a classic Italian meatball, yet these are lower in fat and calories but still moist and full of flavor!
I like to take healthy shortcuts whenever possible, so I chose to use jarred marinara sauce. I love that there are lower sodium options out there, and they are comparable to homemade sauce. Of course, if you prefer homemade marinara, and you have the time, by all means make your own. It can be dome simply with crushed tomatoes, garlic and your favorite herbs. I’d typically use oregano and basil.
We’re trying to eat more protein and veggies at dinnertime. These meatballs stand up on their own, or would also be great served over whole grain pasta or even spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.
Next time you want to make a classic meatball, I hope you give these a try! You won’t even notice they’re lower in fat.
- 1 pound (454 grams) lean ground turkey
- ½ cup onion, grated
- ½ cup parsley, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped
- ⅓ cup parmesan cheese (I used shaved parmesan, but any type will do)
- 2 egg whites (or ¼ cup carton egg whites)
- ⅓ cup quick oats
- 1 jar (700 ml) of lesser sodium marinara sauce (I used PC blue menu marinara)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Mix together all the meatball ingredients and mix with your hands or a spoon.
- Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium/high heat. Once hot, spray with cooking spray.
- Roll out your meatballs, and place in skillet to brown on both sides. You will probably need to do 2 batches as you don't want to crowd the pan.
- Cook on each side until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
- Then add in your jar or marinara sauce and a bit of water if its too thick. Cover with a lid and simmer the meatballs and marinara together until the meatballs are cooked through (about 10 minutes)