There’s something magical about a warm, creamy meal that feels like a hug on a plate. These creamy spinach turkey meatballs fit that description perfectly. Imagine tender turkey and chicken meatballs simmered in a velvety garlic cream sauce, brightened with spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and a perfect dinner option for any night of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for busy weekdays, or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into what makes these creamy spinach turkey meatballs so special.
Why You’ll Love These Meatballs
Simple Yet Sophisticated
This dish strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. The ingredients are straightforward, but the combination of creamy sauce, savory meatballs, and vibrant spinach feels fancy enough for entertaining.
Quick and Easy
With minimal prep and a cook time under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s made entirely in one pan, meaning fewer dishes and more time to relax.
Packed with Flavor
The juicy meatballs are seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and a touch of spice. The rich sauce, made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes, ties everything together beautifully.
Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike love the creamy, cheesy flavors. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it with pasta, rice, or vegetables, depending on your needs.
Ingredients
To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need:
For the Meatballs:
- ½ lb (220g) ground turkey
- ½ lb (220g) ground chicken
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (or cheddar, provolone)
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red crushed chili pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 crumbled bouillon cube (optional)
- Salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup fresh chopped cilantro or parsley
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 ounces (150g) jarred sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained
- ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable broth
- 1 ¾ cups heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups baby spinach leaves
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation Time and Serving Size
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining the ground turkey and chicken in a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded mozzarella, grated garlic, Italian seasoning, red chili flakes (if using), crumbled bouillon cube, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped cilantro or parsley.
Using your hands or a fork, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Scoop out small portions of the mixture, about 1 ½ tablespoons each, and roll them into medium-sized balls. Place them on a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Once done, transfer the meatballs to a clean plate and set them aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic and Tomato Base
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Next, stir in the drained sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This step allows the tomatoes to release their flavors into the base of the sauce.
Step 5: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Parmesan
Once the sauce is simmering, add the baby spinach. Stir until the leaves wilt completely, about 2-3 minutes. Then, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over each meatball to ensure they’re well-coated. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the remaining chopped parsley over the meatballs for a fresh finish. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
How to Serve
These creamy spinach turkey meatballs are incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Over spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic Italian-inspired dinner.
- With steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty, gluten-free option.
- Alongside roasted vegetables or a simple side salad for a lighter meal.
- On their own as a protein-packed appetizer or snack.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, spinach, and Parmesan cheese will elevate the flavors of this dish.
- Drain the Tomatoes: Be sure to drain the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes to avoid an overly oily sauce.
- Don’t Overmix the Meatballs: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients just until they come together.
- Adjust the Spice: Add extra red chili flakes if you like a bit of heat, or omit them altogether for a milder dish.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and skip the Parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free version.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meatballs with plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free: Serve the meatballs with gluten-free pasta or rice, and ensure all ingredients (like the bouillon cube) are certified gluten-free.
- Extra Vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for more texture and nutrients.
- Cheese Substitution: Try Gruyère, Pecorino Romano, or Asiago for a unique flavor twist.
- Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly option.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 32g
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Final Thoughts
These creamy spinach turkey meatballs are a must-try for anyone who loves comforting, flavorful meals. The combination of tender meatballs and a rich, garlicky cream sauce is irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to make and endlessly versatile.
I’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Don’t forget to snap a picture of your dish and share it on social media. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs: A Comforting One-Pan Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Juicy turkey and chicken meatballs cooked in a creamy garlic sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.
Ingredients
- Ground turkey
- Ground chicken
- Mozzarella cheese
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Baby spinach
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Onion
Instructions
- Mix ground meats, cheese, garlic, and seasonings. Form into meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté garlic, onion, and sun-dried tomatoes. Deglaze with broth.
- Add cream, spinach, and Parmesan to create the sauce.
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce until well-coated. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for better texture.
- Substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or veggies.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stove-Top
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired