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Spicy Turkey Meatball Pasta

Irresistibly Spicy Turkey Meatball Pasta for Cozy Nights

Enjoy a warm and inviting Spicy Turkey Meatball Pasta, combining tender turkey meatballs with zesty marinara.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Chill Mixture 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 570 kcal

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Saucepan
  • pot for boiling pasta

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs

  • 1 pound Ground Turkey A lean protein
  • 1 Large Egg Binding agent
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs For structure
  • 1/4 cup Milk To soak breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Aromatic flavor
  • 1/2 medium Onion (finely grated) For moisture and sweetness
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) For richness
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Italian flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Salt For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper For seasoning

For the Marinara Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing
  • 1 can Canned Crushed Tomatoes The base of the sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar To balance acidity
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional) For added spice
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil For flavor

For Serving

  • 12 ounces Spaghetti Pasta of choice
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (for garnish) For color and flavor
  • 1/2 cup Extra Grated Parmesan (for serving) For those who love cheese

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, parsley, garlic, onion, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to keep the mixture tender.
  • Cover and refrigerate the meatball mixture for 15-20 minutes.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Shape the chilled mixture into meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
  • In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic, then add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  • Add the baked meatballs to the simmering sauce and cook for another 5 minutes.
  • Boil spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain.
  • Plate the spaghetti, top with meatballs and sauce, and garnish with basil and extra Parmesan.

Notes

For added spice, sprinkle crushed red pepper on top before serving.
Keyword comfort food, home-cooked meal, meatballs, Pasta, quick dinner, Spicy Turkey Meatball Pasta