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Zesty Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Spinach Rigatoni Recipe

a Meatballs with Garlic Spinach Rigatoni Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 25 reviews

Savor the flavors of Italy with these zesty turkey and ricotta meatballs served over garlic spinach rigatoni. A perfect blend of savory turkey, creamy ricotta, and aromatic herbs, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal for any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prepare the Meatballs: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Shape & Bake: Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C).
  4. Cook the Rigatoni: While the meatballs bake, cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  5. Sauté the Garlic Spinach: Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes.
  6. Combine & Serve: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing everything together. Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Plate the pasta, top with meatballs, and garnish with Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turkey meatballs, Ricotta, Spinach rigatoni, Italian recipe

Find it online: https://www.sanacooks.com/a-meatballs-with-garlic-spinach-rigatoni-recipe/