Pasta with turkey meatballs is a comforting, satisfying meal that combines tender, flavorful meatballs with perfectly cooked pasta and rich tomato sauce. It’s a lighter twist on a classic Italian-American favorite, offering all the cozy, hearty goodness with lean ground turkey as the star.
The turkey meatballs are seasoned with a simple yet delicious blend of garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a touch of oregano or basil. A bit of milk and egg helps bind everything together while keeping the meatballs tender and juicy. Once shaped, the meatballs can be baked, pan-fried, or even simmered directly in the sauce for extra flavor.
The tomato sauce is typically a classic marinara made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil, and herbs like basil and oregano. Simmering the meatballs in the sauce allows the flavors to meld beautifully, infusing the sauce with savory richness while keeping the meatballs moist and tender.
Serve the meatballs over your favorite pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat or gluten-free options, and top it all with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. A drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add an extra layer of flavor.
This dish is as versatile as it is comforting. Pair it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s family-friendly, great for meal prep, and freezes beautifully for future dinners.
For drinks, pasta with turkey meatballs pairs perfectly with a glass of Chianti, Pinot Noir, or a crisp sparkling water with lemon.
Pasta with turkey meatballs delivers everything you love about classic spaghetti and meatballs – cozy, saucy, and cheesy with a lighter twist that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or comfort.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey lean
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Italian seasoned
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 egg beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 ounces pasta your choice
- 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-8 minutes.
- While the meatballs are cooking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Once meatballs are browned, add marinara sauce to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the meatballs and sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Nutrition
This recipe is a lifesaver! Super easy and my kids loved it! Definitely making it again.
Why use turkey? Beef is way better for meatballs. I’m skeptical about turkey… but my friend said it’s healthier.
I dunno man, beef is the classic for meatballs. Might be worth a try but I’m stickin’ to beef, it’s just better.
I get where you’re coming from, but turkey is leaner and can be super flavorful if cooked right! Plus, you can always spice it up a bit more.
I tried this but substituted beef for the turkey. It didn’t turn out as expected. Still kind of tasty but not great…
Omg, this is a GAME CHANGER. My kids devoured every bite! Definitely making this again!
Made this but forgot the basil. Still tasted fine. Just a tip, don’t forget stuff!
It’s pasta, how can you mess it up? LOL. This was alright, wouldn’t say it’s anything special.
I totally get what you’re saying. Pasta isn’t rocket science, but sometimes it’s just missing that extra something, you know?
LOL, it’s just pasta! Were the meatballs even good? I would of added more spices!!!
I don’t know, guys. Aren’t turkey meatballs supposed to be dry? These weren’t dry at all!
I tried this but it was too bland for me. Maybe add more spices or something?
I liked the idea, but I think it could use some chili flakes for a kick!
Pasta and balls sounds weird but I tried it anyway. Not bad, just your average dinner.
Easy to make, but I used chicken instead of turkey. Still turned out good!
Glad to hear it worked out for you! Chicken is a great substitute. 🙌
This recipe is fantastic! The meatballs were juicy and flavorful. My family loved it!
I’m so glad to hear you loved it! We had it last week, and the meatballs were a hit with my kids too!
I dunno, I tried this recipe and my meatballs fell apart. Maybe I did somethin’ wrong?