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Welcome to the vibrant and delicious world of the Pesto Turkey Meatball Skillet—a dish that's not just a feast for the taste buds but also a wholesome option for health-conscious diners. If you're seeking a meal that balances flavor, nutrition, and convenience, this recipe is your go-to choice for busy weeknight dinners. The Pesto Turkey Meatball Skillet combines lean turkey meatballs with a medley of fresh vegetables, all infused with the rich and aromatic essence of pesto sauce.

Pesto Turkey Meatball Skillet

Discover the delicious Pesto Turkey Meatball Skillet, a nutritious and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe features lean turkey meatballs combined with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and spinach, all kissed by aromatic pesto sauce. Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep, it promises to satisfy everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy a wholesome, homemade dish that balances taste and health effortlessly while exploring variations to suit your palate.
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground turkey

1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Skillet:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh spinach

1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves or additional grated Parmesan for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped basil, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients thoroughly until they form a cohesive mixture.

      Shape the Meatballs:

        With clean hands, scoop up a portion of the mixture and roll it into a small meatball about 1 inch in diameter. Continue this process until all the mixture is shaped into approximately 20-24 meatballs.

          Cook the Meatballs:

            Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the turkey meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. Once finished, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.

              Sauté the Vegetables:

                In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften and release their juices. Next, add the spinach and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, stirring until the spinach is wilted.

                  Combine All Ingredients:

                    Return the cooked turkey meatballs to the skillet. Stir in the pesto, ensuring each meatball is coated. If you prefer a creamier texture, add the heavy cream and stir well to incorporate. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through. Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed.

                      Serve and Garnish:

                        Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the dish's flavor. Serve your pesto turkey meatball skillet hot and enjoy!

                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                            - Presentation Tips: Serve the dish directly from the skillet for a rustic look or on individual plates. Add a drizzle of olive oil over the top before serving for an extra touch of flavor.