30-Minute Turkey Meatball Bowls (Print View)

Juicy turkey meatballs with marinara, mozzarella, and garlic bread croutons in a quick, satisfying bowl.

# Components:

→ Turkey Meatballs

01 - 1.1 lbs lean ground turkey
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
07 - 1 tsp dried oregano
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 1/2 tsp black pepper

→ Sauce and Bowls

10 - 2 cups marinara sauce
11 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
12 - 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini or pickled banana peppers (optional)
13 - 2 cups baby spinach or arugula

→ Garlic Bread Croutons

14 - 2 cups cubed Italian or baguette bread
15 - 2 tbsp olive oil
16 - 1 clove garlic, minced
17 - 1/4 tsp salt

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just incorporated. Shape the mixture into 16 small meatballs.
03 - Arrange the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
04 - While the meatballs are baking, toss the cubed bread with olive oil, minced garlic, and salt. Spread the bread cubes on a separate baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crisp.
05 - In a large saucepan, warm the marinara sauce over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Gently add the baked turkey meatballs to the simmering sauce and let them cook together for 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Divide the baby spinach or arugula evenly among four serving bowls. Arrange a portion of the saucy meatballs on top of the greens. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the warm meatballs to allow it to melt.
07 - If using, add the sliced pepperoncini or pickled banana peppers. Finish by scattering the toasted garlic bread croutons over each bowl. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses lean turkey for a healthier twist on traditional beef meatballs
  • Combines all the best parts of a meatball sub in an easy to eat bowl format
  • Customizable for different dietary needs
02 -
  • High in protein with 34g per serving, perfect for active families
  • Can be prepped ahead by making meatballs in advance and refrigerating
  • Naturally portion controlled unlike traditional meatball subs that can be oversized
03 -
  • Always gently mix meatball ingredients with your fingertips rather than a spoon for the most tender result
  • A cookie scoop ensures uniformly sized meatballs that cook evenly
  • Let the meatballs rest for 2 minutes after baking before adding to sauce to help them retain their juices