When I wanted to find a way to sneak more greens into my family’s meals, I came up with these Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs. They’re a dish that’s become a regular in our house tender, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. My kids don’t even realize they’re eating spinach, and I love how easy they are to make. Whether I’m serving them over pasta, rice, or just on their own, they’re always a hit. If you’re looking for a meal that’s both healthy and delicious, these Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs are the answer. Let me show you how to make them they’re a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 40mins |
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
I came up with this recipe when I was trying to find creative ways to incorporate more vegetables into my family’s diet. Spinach is such a versatile green, and pairing it with turkey meatballs seemed like the perfect way to make a healthy, flavorful dish. It’s been a hit ever since.
Why Spinach Turkey Meatballs?
These meatballs are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier, nutrient-packed meal that’s still full of flavor. They’re easy to make, great for meal prep, and a fantastic way to get your family to eat more greens. Plus, the creamy sauce makes them feel indulgent without being heavy.
What is Spinach Turkey Meatballs Made of?
The meatballs are made with ground turkey, fresh spinach, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, and a blend of herbs and spices. They’re baked in the oven and then simmered in a creamy sauce made with milk, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of butter.
What to Have with Spinach Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with:
- Steamed rice or mashed potatoes
- A side of roasted vegetables like carrots or zucchini
- Over a bed of pasta or zucchini noodles
- With a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce
Is Spinach Turkey Meatballs Healthy?
Yes! Turkey is a lean protein, and spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals. Baking the meatballs instead of frying reduces the fat content, and the creamy sauce is made with simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s a great option for a balanced meal.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or whole wheat)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a little heat
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, spinach, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or the meatballs will become tough.
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- While the meatballs are baking, make the creamy sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- For extra flavor, toast the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet before adding them to the mixture.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- Double the recipe and freeze the extras for quick meals later.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works just as well in this recipe.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge, or freeze the baked meatballs for up to 3 months.
Are these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.
Conclusion
These Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs are a healthier, flavorful take on a classic dish. They’re easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for any occasion. Give them a try—they might just become a new favorite in your home!
MORE RECIPES
Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or whole wheat)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, spinach, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or the meatballs will become tough.
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- While the meatballs are baking, make the creamy sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.