Delicious Turkey Meatballs with Egg Noodles: A Comfort Food Favorite

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, home-cooked meal, especially one that brings the family together around the dinner table. As a mom, I know how important it is to find meals that are both nourishing and easy to prepare. These delicious turkey meatballs with egg noodles are exactly that — wholesome, flavorful, and made with love. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your loved ones, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

As moms, we want meals that tick all the boxes: healthy, kid-approved, and not too time-consuming. Here’s why this recipe is one you’ll keep coming back to:

• A healthier twist: Using lean turkey instead of beef makes this dish lighter but still hearty.
• Family-friendly: Even the fussiest eaters will enjoy these tender meatballs.
• Versatile and forgiving: Perfect for meal prepping or freezing leftovers.
• Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy, just pantry staples you probably already have.

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Ingredients Needed

I like to keep things simple in the kitchen, so this recipe uses ingredients you likely have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat if you prefer)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Egg Noodles:

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

I always say that having the right tools makes cooking so much easier. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Tongs or a slotted spoon

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before we start, let’s get that oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). I like to line my baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Make the Turkey Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands — yes, it gets a little messy, but that’s part of the fun! — to gently mix everything together.

Roll the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in size. My kids love helping with this part; it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake them for 18-20 minutes, or until they’re golden and cooked through. The smell alone will have everyone running to the kitchen!

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, let’s make the sauce. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for a few minutes until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, giving it an occasional stir.

Step 5: Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once drained, toss them with a bit of butter to keep them from sticking and to add a rich, comforting flavor.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Carefully add the baked meatballs to the simmering sauce, gently coating them in the tomato goodness. Let them cook together for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Serve the turkey meatballs over the buttery egg noodles, and don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that final touch.

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Mom Tips for Perfect Turkey Meatballs

• Don’t overmix: Keep a gentle hand when mixing the meatball ingredients to ensure they stay tender.
• Use a cookie scoop: It’s a game-changer for making evenly sized meatballs.
• Add your own twist: Feel free to sneak in some grated veggies like carrots or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.

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Recipe Variations

• Switch up the protein: Ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives work well.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
• Spicy version: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the sauce gives a lovely kick.

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How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

If you have leftovers (which doesn’t happen often in my house!), store the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the noodles separate to avoid them getting mushy.

Reheating:

Reheat the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Noodles can be microwaved with a little butter to keep them moist.

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What to Serve with Turkey Meatballs and Egg Noodles

This dish is a meal on its own, but here are some ideas to round out your dinner:

• Garlic bread: Because who doesn’t love a warm, buttery slice?
• Green salad: A light salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Wine pairing: A glass of light red wine, like Pinot Noir, makes a lovely accompaniment for the adults.

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FAQs

1. Can I freeze turkey meatballs?

Absolutely! Once baked, let them cool and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried herbs work perfectly fine. Just use half the amount since they’re more concentrated.

3. What can I use instead of egg noodles?

You can swap the egg noodles for spaghetti, fettuccine, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

4. How can I make the meatballs dairy-free?

Skip the Parmesan and use dairy-free breadcrumbs to keep it dairy-free.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! The meatballs and sauce can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just cook the noodles fresh when you’re ready to serve.

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