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Pesto Pasta with Turkey Meatballs

Pesto Pasta with Turkey Meatballs: A Cozy Weeknight Delight

Savor the delicious Pesto Pasta with Turkey Meatballs, a harmonious blend of pasta, turkey meatballs, and vibrant pesto in under an hour.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Use your favorite type, like whole wheat or gluten-free.
For the Turkey Meatballs
  • 1 pound Ground Turkey A lean source of protein.
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Consider using whole grain for extra fiber.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds flavor depth; fresh garlic also works.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Adjust based on your spice preferences.
For the Sauce and Mix-Ins
  • 1 cup Basil Pesto Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Pearls Swappable for ricotta or parmesan.
  • 2 cups Broccoli Provides color and crunch; can swap for seasonal veggies.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly and shape into meatballs.
  2. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the meatballs for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-12 minutes.
  4. In the last few minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to boiling pasta. Blanch for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Drain pasta and broccoli, return to pot. Add turkey meatballs and drizzle with basil pesto. Toss gently to combine.
  6. Incorporate mozzarella pearls and serve warm, paired with garlic bread or a light side salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Refrigerate shaped meatballs for better texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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