Name: One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground turkey; 1 large egg (lightly beaten); ¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon fennel seed; 3 cloves garlic (finely minced); 1 small yellow onion (finely minced); ⅔ cup panko bread crumbs; ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking); 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 cloves garlic (minced); ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; ¼ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 bay leaves

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 8 reviews

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If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful dinner that doesn’t fill your kitchen with a mountain of dishes, this One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe might just become your new favorite. Juicy turkey meatballs infused with fragrant herbs and spices simmer gently in a rich, tangy tomato sauce all cooked in a single pan—making dinner effortless without sacrificing an ounce of deliciousness. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that brings warmth to the table and smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top-down view of cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center is a glass bowl filled with a mixture of pale minced chicken blended with herbs and small white pieces, likely onions or garlic. Around it, there are two open cans of bright red crushed tomatoes, a white bowl of plain cooked spaghetti, a small white plate with fresh green basil leaves, and another small white dish with two bay leaves. There is also a white bowl filled with light beige breadcrumbs, a smaller glass bowl containing mixed dried Italian herbs, a small clear container holding red chili flakes, a small beige dish with peeled garlic cloves, and a white bowl containing a yellow liquid, presumably oil. Two wooden pepper grinders sit near the top center, and a striped gray and white cloth napkin is partially visible on the left side. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each playing an important role in building layers of flavor and texture that elevate the dish to something really special.

1 pound lean ground turkey: The lean protein base that keeps meatballs tender and healthy.
1 large egg (lightly beaten): Binds everything together so the meatballs hold their shape.
¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil: Adds a bright, aromatic freshness that wakes up the dish.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and depth to the meat.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A classic blend of herbs that brings traditional Italian flavor.
½ teaspoon fennel seed: Subtle anise notes that add complexity and balance.
3 cloves garlic (finely minced): Irreplaceable for savory richness and aroma.
1 small yellow onion (finely minced): Sweetness and moisture to keep meatballs juicy.
⅔ cup panko bread crumbs: Light and airy for perfect meatball texture.
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan: Salty, nutty flavor that boosts the overall taste.
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): For browning the meatballs and adding richness.
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes: The hearty base of the sauce, balancing acidity and sweetness.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Additional garlic for the sauce to deepen the flavor profile.
½ teaspoon salt: Adjusts seasoning in the sauce perfectly.
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Enhances sauce brightness.
¼ teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle warmth and color to the sauce.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Lends a gentle savoriness reassuring the onion flavor is present throughout.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Softens the acidity of the tomatoes for balanced sweetness.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A playful kick to brighten up the sauce if you like a little heat.
2 bay leaves: Infuses the sauce with earthy undertones as it simmers.

How to Make One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Start by combining the ground turkey, egg, fresh basil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, fennel seed, garlic, onion, panko, and Parmesan in a large mixing bowl. Be gentle and mix just until everything comes together; overmixing will make the meatballs dense and tough, which we definitely want to avoid. This is where the foundation for your moist, flavorful meatballs is laid, so take a moment to appreciate how all those ingredients come together.

Step 2: Shape Your Meatballs

To make perfectly round meatballs that cook evenly, fill a small bowl with water and lightly wet your hands. This simple trick keeps the meat from sticking and makes rolling a breeze. Form the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball, and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs in a single layer. Browning on all sides for about 8 minutes total adds beautiful color and builds layers of flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed. Once nicely browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce and Simmer

Using the same skillet (and all those lovely browned bits left behind), add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, sugar, red pepper flakes if using, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle boil to marry the flavors, then reduce the heat, nestle the meatballs back into the sauce, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow cooking method ensures the meatballs cook all the way through and absorb that luscious, herb-infused tomato sauce.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the meatballs are cooked and the sauce is thickened to your liking, remove and discard the bay leaves. Serve these hearty meatballs piled over your favorite spaghetti or hearty pasta, and don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh basil and Parmesan on top. It’s a comforting plate that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.

How to Serve One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe

A white plate holds a base layer of plain yellow spaghetti noodles, topped with three large, round meatballs covered in bright red tomato sauce with chunks of tomato. The meatballs are sprinkled with shredded white cheese and small green basil pieces. At the top right of the plate, there is a piece of yellow garlic bread with a slightly crispy texture and green herb bits. In the background, a white bowl filled with plain yellow spaghetti noodles and a white bowl with meatballs in red sauce are visible. Two wooden pepper and salt grinders stand behind the plate. The surface underneath is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves and an extra dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese are the perfect partners for this One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe. Not only do they add pops of color, but the basil lends a fresh, herbal brightness, while the Parmesan adds a salty, umami finish that ties everything together beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious tomato sauce. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts are also an excellent choice for a balanced plate loaded with flavor and nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

To take this One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe up a notch, try serving the meatballs on a bed of creamy polenta or even spaghetti squash for a low-carb twist. For a crowd, arrange the meatballs on a large platter with fresh herbs and let everyone dig in family-style. They’re also fantastic stuffed into crusty rolls with melted mozzarella for a fun, hearty sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs with sauce keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making the next-day meal even more delicious. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe freezes well. Place the meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce from sticking and to warm the meatballs evenly. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, covering loosely to lock in moisture. Either way, these meatballs will be just as comforting and tasty as when you first made them.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a fine substitute and will yield tender meatballs, though the flavor might be a bit milder. Just watch cooking times, as chicken can sometimes cook faster.

Do I have to use panko bread crumbs?

Panko bread crumbs provide a light texture, but regular bread crumbs or even crushed crackers work well in a pinch. They help keep the meatballs tender and prevent them from falling apart.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but the overall dish will still be delicious.

What if I don’t want spicy meatballs?

Feel free to skip the crushed red pepper flakes. The meatballs and sauce are packed with flavor without the heat, so they’re perfect for kids or anyone who prefers milder dishes.

How do I tell if the meatballs are fully cooked?

After simmering in the sauce for 15–20 minutes, your meatballs should be cooked through. If you want to be absolutely sure, you can cut one open to check that it’s no longer pink inside, or use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and a bit of care can come together to create something truly comforting and memorable. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for cozy nights when you want a homemade meal without the mess. I encourage you to try it out, savor the aromas filling your kitchen, and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your dinner rotation.

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One Pot Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need