Looking for a dinner idea that’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare? The sun-dried tomato turkey meatball bake checks all the boxes.
This one-dish wonder is not only simple but also combines the best of Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Perfect for a family meal or a hearty gathering, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Why This Easy Recipe Is a Must-Try
This recipe elevates the humble turkey meatball into a Mediterranean masterpiece. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes adds a tangy richness that perfectly complements the tender meatballs and cheesy pasta.
It’s an easy, one-pan recipe that’s ideal for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep. Plus, it brings a delightful twist to traditional comfort food with a heart-healthy spin.
The simplicity of this dish makes it a standout. No need for multiple pans or complicated steps; everything comes together seamlessly in one baking dish.
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a beginner, this recipe delivers a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s big on flavor and short on prep time.
Ingredients That Shine
This dish is all about bold Mediterranean flavors. Here’s what makes it so special:
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These little gems bring a burst of tangy and sweet flavor that ties the whole dish together.
- Turkey meatballs: A lighter alternative to beef, turkey keeps the dish lean while providing plenty of protein.
- Cheese trio: Ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella create a creamy, gooey finish that’s hard to resist.
- Herbs and spices: Oregano and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic, earthy notes that are unmistakably Mediterranean.
Pair these ingredients with your favorite short-cut pasta and a jar of marinara sauce, and you’ve got everything you need for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Tips for Success
Even though this recipe is easy, a few tips can make it even better:
- Use fresh basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves before serving adds brightness and freshness.
- Mix up the protein: While turkey works beautifully, ground chicken or lean beef are great alternatives.
- Cook the pasta al dente: This ensures the pasta doesn’t overcook while baking.
- Add a touch of heat: For those who love a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit a variety of diets:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Low-carb: Swap out the pasta for spiralized zucchini or another vegetable noodle alternative.
- Dairy-free: Replace the cheeses with your favorite dairy-free options for a lactose-free version.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace the turkey meatballs with plant-based meat alternatives or roasted vegetables.
No matter how you customize it, the sun-dried tomato turkey meatball bake retains its easy preparation and bold flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it further with simple sides:
- Mediterranean salad: A crisp salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for mopping up every bit of the cheesy, tomato-rich sauce.
- Steamed greens: A side of sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli adds balance and nutrition.
A Dish That Delivers Every Time
The sun-dried tomato turkey meatball bake is the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. It’s an easy recipe that feels indulgent yet aligns with the Mediterranean lifestyle’s wholesome approach to food.
Whether you’re cooking for a family, hosting friends, or simply craving a comforting dinner, this dish promises to deliver satisfaction with every bite.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s a keeper for any food lover’s collection. From its easy preparation to its bold and comforting flavors, it’s a Mediterranean-inspired dish that never disappoints.
Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Meatball Bake Recipe
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- ¾ pound ground turkey
- ¾ cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes oil reserved
- 3 garlic cloves minced or grated
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
For the Sauce and Pasta:
- 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 large eggs beaten
- ¾ pound short-cut pasta
- Crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella torn
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves slivered
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven temperature to 375°F to ensure it’s ready for baking.
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, ricotta, Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, one minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands.
- Form the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs, about 2 tablespoons each. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and place the meatballs inside.
- Drizzle the reserved oil from the sun-dried tomatoes over the meatballs. Bake them in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, just until they start to crisp on the outside but remain undercooked inside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, 2 cups of water, balsamic vinegar, beaten eggs, the remaining two minced garlic cloves, the second teaspoon of oregano, the pasta, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if desired). Stir to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
Assemble the Dish:
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the partially cooked meatballs in the baking dish. Stir gently to coat the meatballs and distribute the pasta evenly.
- Tear the mozzarella into pieces and scatter it over the top of the dish. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake and Broil:
- Place the covered dish back in the oven and bake for 40 minutes. This will cook the pasta through and allow the flavors to meld together while the sauce thickens.
- After 40 minutes, remove the foil and switch the oven to the broil setting. Broil the dish for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbling.
Finish and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to cool slightly.
- Garnish the bake with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm, alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken, pork, or beef for the turkey if preferred.
- For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the sauce.
- Serve with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.