Turkey Meatball Marinara Skillet
This Turkey Meatball Marinara Skillet is a cozy, flavorful one-pan meal featuring juicy turkey meatballs, rich marinara, and gooey mozzarella cheese.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey lean protein base for the meatballs
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs adds texture and helps bind the meatballs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese brings a nutty, umami flavor
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley adds freshness and color
- 1 egg binds the meatball ingredients together
- 2 cloves garlic minced, infuses the meatballs with aromatic flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt enhances all the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper adds a gentle kick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for browning the meatballs
- 24 ounces marinara sauce the rich tomato base that simmers the meatballs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese melts over the top for gooey goodness
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs, about the size of a golf ball, making approximately 16 meatballs. Place on a clean plate or tray.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully without overcrowding. Brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes total, turning gently.
- Pour the jar of marinara sauce over the browned meatballs. Nestle meatballs gently into the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Remove lid and sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over meatballs and sauce. Cover again and cook for a few minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Scoop meatballs and sauce onto plates or serve family-style from the skillet. Enjoy with pasta, crusty bread, or salad.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Large skillet with a lid
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Tongs or slotted spoon
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently to keep meatballs moist.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers.
- Meatballs can be baked at 400°F for 15-20 minutes as an alternative to frying.
- Customize herbs and cheese to suit your taste, such as using basil or provolone.
- Add veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers to the marinara sauce for extra nutrition.
