These creamy spinach turkey meatballs are the ultimate weeknight dinner, packed with flavor and easy to make. The juicy turkey meatballs are smothered in a creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato sauce that just melts in your mouth. This dish is gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly, making it a perfect choice for a healthy yet satisfying meal. Enjoy them on their own or serve with steamed veggies, cauliflower rice, or pasta for a complete meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb (220g) ground turkey meat
• 1/2 lb (220g) ground chicken meat
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (or cheddar, provolone…)
• 4 cloves garlic, grated + 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red crushed chili pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 crumbled bouillon cube (optional)
• Salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh chopped cilantro (or parsley), divided
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable broth
• 5 ounces (150g) jarred sun-dried tomato in oil, drained of oil
• 1 3/4 cups heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups baby spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, ground chicken, cheese, grated garlic, Italian seasoning, bouillon cube, chili flakes, chopped cilantro, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands or a fork and form medium-sized meatballs. Set them aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Brown the meatballs for 8-10 minutes on all sides until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the cooking juices. Add the minced garlic and fry until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and allow the sauce to reduce slightly. Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream and simmer, stirring occasionally. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the spinach and let it wilt in the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and simmer until the cheese has melted.
6. Return the cooked meatballs to the pan, sprinkle with parsley, and spoon the sauce over each meatball. Serve over steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or pasta for non-keto dieters.

Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Protein: 40-45g
• Carbohydrates: 6-10g
  • Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugar: 2-3g
• Fat: 30-35g
  • Saturated Fat: 12-14g
• Cholesterol: 120-150mg
• Sodium: 600-800mg
• Calcium: 200-250mg
• Iron: 2-3mg

Why Choose Turkey Meatballs?

Turkey is an excellent choice for those who are looking to reduce their intake of red meat without sacrificing flavor. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef, making it a great option for a healthier meal. It’s high in protein, low in fat, and contains essential nutrients like B-vitamins, which help with energy production and overall health.

By using a mix of ground turkey and chicken, this recipe maximizes the meatball’s moisture and tenderness. The combination of these two lean meats helps to prevent the meatballs from becoming dry, which is a common concern when cooking with leaner meat. Additionally, the cheese and fresh herbs added to the meatballs enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite a burst of savory goodness.

The Magic of the Creamy Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

The sauce in this recipe is what truly elevates these meatballs. The creamy base, made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, brings a luxurious richness that pairs perfectly with the lean turkey meatballs. The heavy cream provides a velvety texture while the Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Sun-dried tomatoes are the star of the sauce, contributing a tangy and slightly sweet depth of flavor. These tomatoes are packed with concentrated flavor, and when combined with garlic and onions, they create an aromatic base for the sauce. The combination of fresh spinach adds a pop of color and freshness, while also contributing important vitamins and minerals.

Low-Carb, Keto-Friendly, and Gluten-Free

One of the standout features of this dish is its ability to fit into various dietary restrictions. Whether you’re following a low-carb, gluten-free, or keto lifestyle, this recipe is a great option. The meatballs are free from breadcrumbs, which are typically used to bind meatballs in traditional recipes, making it suitable for those who avoid gluten.

The sauce itself is also keto-friendly, as it’s made primarily from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, both of which are low in carbs. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to reduce their carb intake but still enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal.

Packed with Protein

Each serving of these creamy spinach turkey meatballs contains approximately 40-45 grams of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Protein is also an important nutrient for maintaining muscle mass, boosting metabolism, and keeping you feeling full longer. This makes this dish an excellent choice for anyone looking to incorporate more protein into their diet, especially those following an active or fitness-focused lifestyle.

How to Serve Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs

These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your dietary preferences. For a low-carb or keto-friendly meal, serve the meatballs on a bed of cauliflower rice, which provides a light, fluffy base that soaks up the creamy sauce. If you’re not following a strict low-carb diet, steamed vegetables or whole wheat pasta are also excellent options that complement the richness of the sauce.

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a side salad or roasted vegetables to your meal. The freshness of a simple salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the creamy, rich meatballs, balancing the meal perfectly.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the best things about this creamy spinach turkey meatball recipe is its flexibility. If you prefer to switch up the vegetables, you can easily swap spinach for other leafy greens like kale or arugula. If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, you can substitute them with roasted red peppers for a similar depth of flavor.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. While this recipe calls for Italian seasoning and chili flakes for a bit of heat, you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Add some fresh basil, thyme, or oregano to give the meatballs even more aromatic flavor.

A Comforting Dish with Healthy Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to be both comforting and healthy. While the creamy sauce provides indulgent richness, the ingredients are packed with nutrients that promote good health. Spinach, for example, is loaded with iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, which support overall well-being. The combination of turkey, chicken, and cheese offers a well-rounded balance of protein, healthy fats, and calcium.

Additionally, the use of fresh herbs and garlic not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also provides numerous health benefits. Garlic, for instance, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to boost the immune system, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

Ideal for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for a meal that can be made in advance and enjoyed throughout the week, these creamy spinach turkey meatballs are a great option. They store well in the refrigerator for several days and can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stove for a quick and easy meal that feels like a treat. This makes the recipe perfect for meal prepping or busy nights when you want a homemade, satisfying dinner with minimal effort.

Conclusion

These creamy spinach turkey meatballs are the perfect combination of flavor, health, and convenience. The tender turkey meatballs, combined with the rich and creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato sauce, create a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free lifestyle, this recipe caters to various dietary needs without compromising on taste. With its high protein content, healthy fats, and nourishing vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also a wholesome choice for any meal.

Whether you serve it over cauliflower rice, pasta, or steamed veggies, this meal is guaranteed to impress. It’s an excellent option for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even entertaining guests. With the ability to customize the flavors and ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen for years to come.