If you’re looking for a delightful, healthy dinner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you’ve found it! Our Turkey Meatballs Marinara with Spaghetti Squash offer a perfect blend of savory turkey, classic Italian marinara, and the subtle sweetness of roasted spaghetti squash. It is not only nutritious but also utterly satisfying, making it an ideal meal for both family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
To create this culinary masterpiece, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar of marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Equipments
Gather the following kitchen tools for an easy cooking experience:
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Turkey Meatballs Marinara Spaghetti Squash – Step By Step
Step 1 – Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
Step 2 – Make the Meatballs
While the squash is baking, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, roughly the size of a golf ball. This should yield about 16-20 meatballs.
Step 3 – Cook the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Place the meatballs in the skillet, cooking them until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through. This should take about 10-12 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.
Step 4 – Prepare the Marinara Sauce
In the same skillet, add the marinara sauce. Stir and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked meatballs back into the sauce and let them simmer together for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy
Once the spaghetti squash is ready, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Place a generous amount of squash on each plate, top with meatballs and marinara sauce, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil.
How to Serve Turkey Meatballs Marinara Spaghetti Squash
Serve this dish hot, freshly garnished with basil leaves and another sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Pair with a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors. This dish stands alone as a satisfying meal, but a glass of red wine would elevate the dining experience.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a burst of flavor, consider adding minced onions or fresh herbs like rosemary to your meatball mixture. If you prefer a spicier dish, incorporate red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce.
Powerful Protein – A High-Protein Twist on This Recipe
Packed with nutritious protein, our version of Turkey Meatballs Marinara Spaghetti Squash considers your dietary goals without compromising taste. Use lean turkey and incorporate extra egg whites into the meatball mixture for added protein. This version boosts your intake, perfect for those focused on high-protein diets.
Low-Carb, Full Flavor – A Delicious Low-Carb Alternative
For those on a low-carb diet, this recipe intuitive switches from breadcrumbs to almond flour, retaining the mouthfeel of traditional meatballs while keeping carbs to a minimum. Roasting spaghetti squash instead of pasta further decreases carbohydrate levels while adding a delicious, subtle sweetness.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The entire dish freezes well for up to a month, although the texture of the spaghetti squash may change slightly upon thawing. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQs
- Can I substitute beef for turkey? Absolutely! Beef offers a richer flavor, though it alters the nutritional profile.
- Can I prep this dish in advance? Yes, make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Bake the squash right before serving for the freshest taste.
- What can I serve with this dish? This dish pairs well with a green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
- Is this dish keto-friendly? The low-carb version using almond flour is great for keto diets!
- How can I spice it up? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for an extra kick.