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Pesto Pasta with Turkey Meatballs

Pesto Pasta with Turkey Meatballs: A Quick & Flavorful Delight

Enjoy this quick and satisfying Pesto Pasta with Turkey Meatballs, packed with protein and vibrant flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey Meatballs
  • 1 pound Ground turkey or ground beef or chicken
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs use panko or gluten-free
  • 1 teaspoon Dried herbs parsley, basil, or Italian seasoning
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta penne or rotini, gluten-free if needed
For the Sauce & Veggies
  • 1 cup Basil pesto sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 2 cups Broccoli can substitute with spinach or green beans
  • 1 cup Mozzarella pearls or shredded mozzarella

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • large pot
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and shape into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Let them rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and coat with olive oil. Add meatballs in a single layer and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning until browned and cooked through, internal temp of 165°F.
  4. Add cooked pasta, broccoli, mozzarella pearls, and basil pesto to the skillet. Toss together over low heat for 2-3 minutes, adding reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 20mg

Notes

For best results, ensure meatballs are evenly sized and avoid overcrowding the skillet. Reserve pasta water for a creamier sauce.

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