Looking for delicious and romantic recipe ideas? Sweetheart Turkey Meatballs with Spaghetti is a delightful dish that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. This quick and easy dinner combines tender, heart-shaped turkey meatballs with a flavorful arrabbiata sauce and spaghetti, making it both comforting and fun to serve.
Whether you’re sharing a meal with a loved one or creating a family-friendly dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or romantic evenings.
- Heartwarming Presentation: Adorable heart-shaped meatballs make this dish special and memorable.
- Versatile: Use your favorite pasta sauce and adjust portions as needed.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti and Sauce
- 16 ounces dry spaghetti noodles
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 36 ounces Fire Roasted Slow Cooker Arrabbiata Sauce (or your favorite bottled pasta sauce)
- Shaved Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
For the Meatballs
- Sweetheart Turkey Meatballs (see recipe)
How to Make Sweetheart Turkey Meatballs with Spaghetti
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Make the Sweetheart Turkey Meatballs ahead of time. These heart-shaped delights are the highlight of the dish!
- Mix turkey, thyme, oregano, basil, panko, parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, chicken stock, and kosher salt in a large bowl.
- Form meat mixture into your preferred size meatball, make a dimple with your thumb, and place one roasted garlic clove in the center.
- Squeeze the meat around it, and roll it in your hands 10 times; place it on a baking sheet.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Time varies depending on the size of your meatballs.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions (usually 9-11 minutes) or until your desired tenderness is achieved.
Step 3: Heat the Sauce
- Heat garlic oil over medium heat in a medium pan; stir in chopped garlic, oregano, thyme, and bay leaves, and cook for 20 seconds.
- Add white wine, reduce by a third; add tomato sauce, kosher salt, black pepper, and granulated sugar.
- Bring to a boil, add meatballs, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Spaghetti with Sauce
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and transfer it to the skillet with the sauce.
- Using tongs, toss the spaghetti until evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Divide the spaghetti among 8 pasta bowls or dinner plates.
- Top each portion with 3-4 Sweetheart Turkey Meatballs.
- Ladle additional sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle with shaved Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired dinner.
- Serve with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon for a romantic touch.
Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance to save time on busy nights.
- Customize the Sauce: Use store-bought pasta sauce or try the Fire Roasted Slow Cooker Arrabbiata Sauce for a spicy, homemade touch.
- Portion Control: Use only the meatballs and pasta you need for this meal and save leftovers for other dishes.
Why Sweetheart Turkey Meatballs with Spaghetti is Perfect for Recipe Ideas
This dish checks all the boxes for a memorable dinner. It’s quick, easy, and versatile, with adorable heart-shaped meatballs that make it stand out. Whether you’re planning a romantic night in or just want a creative dinner idea, this recipe is a must-try.