Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs: Juicy & Flavorful Delight

Recipe By:
Emily Harrison
Updated:

There’s something magical about the aroma of creamy spinach turkey meatballs wafting through the kitchen. Picture tender, juicy meatballs, bursting with flavorful spices, and enveloped in a creamy sauce that dances on your taste buds. The first bite might just have you exclaiming, “Why didn’t I make these sooner?”

I first stumbled upon these culinary gems when trying to impress my family on a weeknight dinner. Little did I know that creamy spinach turkey meatballs would become our go-to recipe for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just because it’s Wednesday! Get ready to dive into a flavor experience that will leave everyone begging for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These creamy spinach turkey meatballs are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients
  • The vibrant green spinach makes them visually appealing and fun to eat
  • They’re versatile enough for spaghetti night or as a healthy appetizer at parties
  • You can even customize them with your favorite herbs and spices for an extra twist!

I still remember the joy on my friends’ faces when they first tasted this dish—it was a hit!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Turkey: Lean and flavorful, perfect for making juicy meatballs while keeping things light.

  • Fresh Spinach: Opt for vibrant green leaves; they add color and nutrition to your meatballs.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Choose finely grated cheese for an extra creamy texture and salty punch.

  • Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs together.

  • Eggs: One or two eggs act as the binding agent, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape.

  • Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic depth that’s simply irresistible.

  • Onion: A finely chopped onion gives a sweet flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.

  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil elevates the overall taste profile.

  • Creamy Sauce Ingredients (Heavy Cream & Chicken Broth): They create a luscious sauce that envelops the meatballs beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the spinach finely and mince garlic and onion. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) while you’re at it!

Mix Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion, eggs, and seasoning. Mix until well combined but don’t overwork it!

Shape Meatballs: Lightly grease your hands with oil and shape the mixture into small balls—about 1 inch in diameter works well. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Meatballs: Pop those beauties in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown. The kitchen will smell heavenly; resist the urge to snack!

Create Creamy Sauce: While the meatballs bake, pour heavy cream and chicken broth into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until combined and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes.

Add Meatballs to Sauce: Once baked, transfer your meatballs into the creamy sauce. Gently coat them in that luscious goodness for about 5 more minutes before serving.

Now you’ve created creamy spinach turkey meatballs that are not only juicy but bursting with flavor! Serve over pasta or enjoy them on their own as an appetizer—either way, they’ll be devoured in no time!

You Must Know

  • Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs are not just delicious; they are a fantastic way to sneak in some greens
  • The blend of flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal that both kids and adults will love
  • Plus, they freeze well for quick dinners later!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your turkey with seasonings and spinach, then roll into meatballs. Sear them on high heat for a golden crust, then finish cooking in the sauce for maximum flavor infusion.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or add different herbs like oregano or basil. You can also toss in some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy flavor boost.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For an extra burst of flavor, add minced garlic to the turkey mixture
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the meatballs for a perfect caramelization
  • Always taste your sauce before serving; it might need a pinch of salt or sugar!

Cooking these meatballs brings me back to family gatherings where everyone fought over the last one. I remember my cousin claiming it was his secret recipe—little did he know I had just Googled it!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground beef can be used but will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed rice cakes.

What sauce pairs best with these meatballs?

A marinara sauce is classic, but a creamy Alfredo also works wonderfully!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining lean ground turkey and vibrant spinach into juicy meatballs enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these meatballs are not only nutritious but also incredibly flavorful. Serve them over pasta for a satisfying meal or enjoy them as a standout appetizer.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion, egg, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
  3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Meanwhile, heat heavy cream and chicken broth in a saucepan over medium heat; simmer for about 5 minutes.
  6. Add baked meatballs to the sauce and let cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
  • Author: Emily Harrison
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 meatballs (160g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star