Name: Baked Pesto Spinach Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground turkey; 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto; 2 cups baby spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian); 1 large egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

The aroma of Baked Pesto Spinach Turkey Meatballs wafts through the air, greeting you like an old friend. Imagine sinking your teeth into these tender meatballs, where savory turkey meets the vibrant freshness of pesto and the earthy goodness of spinach. perfect pair with turkey meatballs The anticipation builds as the golden tops emerge from the oven, glistening with promise.

As a self-proclaimed meatball aficionado, I recall the time my family devoured these in record time at our Sunday dinner. Picture this: laughter around the table, everyone reaching for seconds, and me trying to sneak a few off the platter when no one was looking. delicious dessert to finish These meatballs are perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Baked Pesto Spinach Turkey Meatballs offer a delightful flavor explosion while being easy to prepare
Packed with nutrients and color, they make a stunning dish for any occasion
The combination of turkey and greens provides a healthy twist on classic comfort food that’s versatile enough for pasta or salads

I made these meatballs for a potluck once, and they were gone before I could even claim my share.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: crunchy side dish option.

Ground Turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier option that still packs flavor.
Pesto: Use fresh basil pesto if possible; it adds brightness and authentic Italian flair.
Fresh Spinach: Opt for baby spinach; it wilts beautifully and blends seamlessly into the meat mixture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh—nothing beats that rich umami flavor in every bite.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to help hold everything together.
Eggs: They act as a binder; don’t skip them unless you want crumbling meatballs.
Garlic Powder: For that extra kick; it amplifies all flavors in this succulent dish.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of spices that brings warmth to each meatball, making them irresistible.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile of your meatballs.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking as soon as those meatballs hit the heat.

Mix Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, pesto, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined—don’t overdo it!

Shape Your Meatballs: With your hands (yes, get messy), form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs—about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter works best.

Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place your formed meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced out nicely so they can brown evenly without crowding each other.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Pop them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve & Enjoy!: Once baked to perfection, take out those glorious meatballs and let them cool slightly before serving them warm alongside pasta or in a sub sandwich.

These Baked Pesto Spinach Turkey Meatballs are not only satisfying but also bring joy to any meal! hearty breakfast alternative.

You Must Know

Baked Pesto Spinach Turkey Meatballs are not only healthy but also bursting with flavor
The aroma of fresh basil and garlic wafts through your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking one before dinner
These meatballs are perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the turkey with spinach and pesto, then shape into balls. Bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Add cheese or nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for better texture and taste
Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid soggy meatballs
Experiment with different pestos for unique flavor profiles that will wow your guests

Cooking these Baked Pesto Spinach Turkey Meatballs always brings back memories of hosting friends who’d devour them within minutes, leaving me chuckling at their enthusiasm. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Pizza with Spinach and Mushrooms recipe.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I freeze Baked Pesto Spinach Turkey Meatballs?

Yes, these meatballs freeze well; just store them in freezer-safe bags.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

Try serving them over pasta, in a sub, or alongside a fresh salad.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.