Herbed Turkey-Ricotta Meatballs
Discover a lighter twist on classic meatballs with our Herbed Turkey-Ricotta Meatballs. This recipe is inspired by a health-conscious approach to Italian cuisine, featuring lean ground turkey blended with creamy ricotta cheese, fresh herbs, and just the right amount of seasoning to create a deliciously moist and flavorful dish. Perfect for a hearty spaghetti dinner, a flavorful Stroganoff alternative, or a satisfying appetizer alongside a warm marinara dip. Not only are these meatballs lower in fat, but the ricotta also ensures they stay tender and juicy. Whether you're meal prepping for busy weeknights or looking for a crowd-pleasing party snack, these meatballs can be made ahead and frozen for up to three months!
4-6
Servings
60
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Turkey Breast
1 lb (Raw, ground)
Part-Skim Ricotta Cheese
1/2 cup (Plain)
Egg
1 (Beaten)
Dry Breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (Plain)
Fresh Basil
1/4 cup (Chopped)
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Ground)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (Table salt)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey breast, part-skim ricotta cheese, egg, dry breadcrumbs, chopped fresh basil, black pepper, and salt. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3
Shape the mixture into approximately 18 meatballs, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
4
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, coat the skillet with a light layer of cooking spray.
5
Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step helps develop flavor.
6
Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and transfer them to a broiler pan coated with cooking spray.
7
Place the meatballs in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
8
To freeze, let the cooked meatballs cool to room temperature. Arrange them on a baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch, and place in the freezer for one hour.
9
Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
10
To reheat, thaw meatballs in the refrigerator, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
5g
Carbs
11g
Protein
0.3g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein source in these meatballs?
The primary protein source is 1 lb of raw ground turkey breast.
Why is ricotta cheese added to the turkey meat mixture?
Part-skim ricotta cheese is added to ensure the lean turkey meatballs stay moist, tender, and flavorful.
What oven temperature is required for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C) for baking the meatballs.
How many meatballs does this recipe typically yield?
The recipe makes approximately 18 evenly sized meatballs.
What is the recommended internal temperature for fully cooked meatballs?
The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How long should the meatballs brown in the skillet?
Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes to develop flavor.
How long do the meatballs need to bake in the oven?
After browning, bake the meatballs in the oven for 15-20 minutes.
Can these turkey-ricotta meatballs be frozen?
Yes, they can be frozen for up to three months in an airtight container.
What is the best way to reheat frozen meatballs?
Thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator, then bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
What type of ricotta is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifies using part-skim ricotta cheese.
Are these meatballs considered a low-fat food?
Yes, with only 2g of fat per serving, these are a low-fat alternative to traditional meatballs.
How much protein is provided in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 11g of protein.
What fresh herb is recommended for seasoning?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of fresh chopped basil.
Why is it important to mix the ingredients gently?
Avoiding overmixing ensures that the meatballs remain tender rather than becoming tough.
What are some recommended ways to serve these meatballs?
They are perfect for spaghetti dinners, Stroganoff alternatives, or as an appetizer with marinara dip.
How should I prepare the meatballs for the freezer?
Cool them, arrange on a baking sheet without touching for one hour, then move to an airtight container.
How much breadcrumbs are needed for the binder?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of plain dry breadcrumbs.
Does this recipe contain eggs?
Yes, it includes one beaten egg to help bind the ingredients together.
What type of pan should be used for the oven stage?
A broiler pan coated with cooking spray is recommended for baking the meatballs.
What is the calorie count per serving?
There are approximately 60 calories per serving.
How much salt is used in the seasoning?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of table salt.
What is the carbohydrate content of this dish?
Each serving contains 5g of carbohydrates.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, these meatballs are ideal for meal prepping as they can be made ahead and frozen.
What cuisine style inspired this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Italian cuisine with a focus on healthy ingredients.
How much black pepper should I add?
Add 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
How much ricotta cheese is required?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of part-skim ricotta cheese.
What is the fiber content per serving?
Each serving provides about 0.3g of fiber.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve between 4 and 6 people.
What should be used to prevent sticking in the skillet?
A light coating of cooking spray on a nonstick skillet is recommended.
Are these meatballs good for parties?
Yes, they make a crowd-pleasing party snack, especially when served as an appetizer.