Crispy Meatballs – A Healthier Twist on Italian Classic
Cook Time: 30 minutes | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Recipe Category: Spaghetti | Servings: 4
These crispy meatballs bring the rich flavors of Italian cooking without the excess fat and calories. Made with lean ground turkey and a blend of aromatic spices, they are the perfect addition to your spaghetti sauce or even as a hearty filling for lasagna. This recipe combines traditional Italian seasonings like fennel, parsley, and garlic to create a wholesome, high-protein dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Turkey | 1 1/2 lbs |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Lemon (rind of) | 2/3 of a lemon |
| Fresh Parsley | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Fennel | 1 teaspoon, ground |
| Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Crushed Red Pepper Flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup, grated |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 397.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 19.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 246.8 mg |
| Sodium | 443.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 14.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugars | 1.5 g |
| Protein | 38.3 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ground Turkey: If your ground turkey is frozen, be sure to thaw it fully before beginning to make the meatballs. This ensures the meat will mix evenly with the other ingredients.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with the eggs, bread crumbs, lemon rind, fresh parsley, ground fennel, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, minced garlic, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs that are about the size of a large walnut. This size helps them cook evenly and achieve that desired crispy texture.
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Bake the Meatballs: Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in a baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake at 400°F for about 30 minutes or until the meatballs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the meatballs are cooked through and crispy, remove them from the oven. Serve them hot with your favorite spaghetti sauce, or use them in a lasagna for a delicious, healthy alternative.
This recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. The ground turkey offers a high-protein, low-fat alternative to traditional beef or pork meatballs, and the combination of spices provides an authentic Italian flavor profile that pairs beautifully with pasta. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or adding them to a special homemade lasagna, these crispy meatballs are sure to be a hit at your table.
