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Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs Recipe

4.6 from 79 reviews

These Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs combine lean ground turkey and chicken mixed with mozzarella and flavorful herbs, cooked to perfection in a skillet. They are simmered in a rich, garlicky sun-dried tomato cream sauce with wilted spinach and parmesan, resulting in a comforting and savory dish perfect for a wholesome dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1/2 lb (220g) ground turkey meat
  • 1/2 lb (220g) ground chicken meat
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (or cheddar, provolone)
  • 4 cloves garlic, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red crushed chili pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 crumbled bouillon cube (optional)
  • Salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup fresh chopped cilantro (or parsley), divided

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable broth
  • 5 ounces (150g) jarred sun-dried tomato in oil, drained of oil
  • 1 3/4 cups heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups baby spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey and chicken with shredded mozzarella, grated garlic, Italian seasoning, crumbled bouillon cube (if using), red chili flakes (optional), half of the chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a fork until well combined. Form mixture into medium-sized meatballs and arrange them on a plate.
  2. Cook meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the turkey meatballs and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning them to brown all sides evenly and ensure they are cooked through. Once done, remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate.
  3. Sauté aromatics and sun-dried tomatoes: In the same skillet with remaining juices, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and fry for about one minute until fragrant. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes to release their flavors into the pan.
  4. Reduce with broth and simmer cream: Pour in the vegetable broth and allow the mixture to reduce slightly, enhancing the flavor concentration. Lower the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Season the cream sauce with salt and pepper according to taste.
  5. Add spinach and cheese: Stir the baby spinach into the cream sauce and cook until it wilts down. Then, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for an additional minute until the cheese melts and integrates into the sauce smoothly.
  6. Combine meatballs and serve: Return the cooked turkey meatballs to the pan, coating them thoroughly in the creamy spinach sauce. Sprinkle the remaining chopped parsley over the dish. Serve immediately, pairing with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option, or alongside rice or pasta for a more traditional meal. Enjoy your comforting creamy garlic spinach Tuscan meatballs!

Notes

  • You can substitute mozzarella with other mild cheeses like cheddar or provolone based on your preference.
  • Red chili flakes and bouillon cubes are optional but add depth and a touch of heat; omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • Serving suggestions include steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or rice and pasta for a more filling meal.
  • Ensure meatballs are cooked through by browning them evenly on all sides.
  • Warming the cream sauce gently helps to prevent curdling and ensures a smooth texture.
  • Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley enhance freshness; you can adjust according to taste or availability.

Keywords: turkey meatballs, creamy spinach sauce, Tuscan meatballs, sun-dried tomato cream sauce, healthy meatball recipe