Go Back
In the realm of comfort food, skillet meals hold a special place. They are not only quick to prepare but also rich in flavor and nutrients, making them ideal for busy weeknights and cozy family dinners alike. One standout example is the Cheesy Turkey Meatball and Spinach Skillet, a dish that effortlessly marries hearty flavors with a health-conscious approach. With the use of lean turkey, vibrant spinach, and a melty cheese blend, this recipe is a celebration of taste and nutrition.

Cheesy Turkey Meatball and Spinach Skillet

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Turkey Meatball and Spinach Skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick and nutritious recipe combines lean ground turkey, vibrant spinach, and a delicious blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to create a satisfying meal. With essential vitamins and minerals, every bite promises rich flavor and health benefits. Enjoy this one-pan dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love, making it a delightful choice for family dinners or meal prep!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

1 large egg, beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking the meatballs.

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

      Shape the Meatballs: With clean hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. You should end up with about 18-20 meatballs.

        Brown the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are golden brown on all sides.

          Add the Sauce: Carefully pour the crushed tomatoes over the browned meatballs in the skillet. Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce, and if you enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the top.

            Bake to Perfection: Sprinkle any remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the meatballs and sauce in the skillet. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is melty and golden brown.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, allow the skillet to cool for a few moments. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot alongside pasta, quinoa, or a crusty piece of bread perfect for dipping!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: For a visually appealing dish, serve the skillet directly on the table and allow guests to scoop out their portions. Accompany with a side salad for a complete meal!