Are you ready to indulge in a mouthwatering Italian dish that’s both healthy and satisfying? Our Crock Pot Spaghetti Squash Turkey Meatballs recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners! Imagine tender, flavorful turkey meatballs simmering in a rich marinara sauce, served over a bed of perfectly roasted spaghetti squash. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also keeps your meal light and nutritious. With just a few simple ingredients and a little prep time, you can create a delicious meal that your entire family will love. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the spaghetti squash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Drizzle the inside of each half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the turkey meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the turkey mixture into meatballs, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 12-16 meatballs depending on the size you choose.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. They do not need to be cooked through at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the Crock Pot.
- Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them to the Crock Pot. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated. If desired, you can add some additional Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Cover the Crock Pot with the lid and set it to low heat. Allow the meatballs to cook for 6 hours. This slow cooking will help the flavors meld together and keep the meatballs moist.
- While the meatballs are cooking, finish preparing the spaghetti squash. Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Set aside.
- After 6 hours of cooking, check the meatballs for doneness. They should be cooked through and tender. If they are done, carefully remove the meatballs from the Crock Pot and place them on a serving platter.
- To serve, place a generous portion of the spaghetti squash on each plate and top with several turkey meatballs and marinara sauce. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!
Tips
- Choosing the Right Squash: When selecting your spaghetti squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a firm, smooth skin. This ensures you’ll get the best texture when cooked.
- Avoid Overmixing the Meatballs: When combining the turkey and other ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Browning the Meatballs: For extra flavor, don't skip the browning step! It adds a delicious caramelized crust that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Customize Your Marinara: Feel free to spice up your marinara sauce by adding garlic, chopped onions, or even some fresh basil for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for a day or two. This makes it even easier to throw everything in the Crock Pot when you’re ready to cook.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with fresh herbs or additional Parmesan cheese before serving. A little extra touch makes the meal look as good as it tastes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 1022kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 111g
Fat: 46g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 456mg