Turkey Meatballs in Marinara

1. 1
   prep

   Make the meatball mixture.

   1.In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Parmesan, 2 minced garlic cloves, and parsley.

   2.Season with 0.25 tsp salt and a pinch of black pepper.

   3.Mix gently with your hands just until combined—don't overwork or meatballs will be tough.

   TIPChill the mixture 10 minutes if it feels too sticky to handle; it makes rolling easier.
2. 2
   prep

   Form and bake the meatballs.

   1.Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

   2.Roll mixture into 16 even golf-ball-sized meatballs and place on the lined baking sheet.

   3.Bake for 15 minutes until lightly browned and cooked through.

   TIPThe meatballs finish cooking in the sauce; pulling them at 15 min keeps them from drying out.
3. 3
   saute

   Start the marinara sauce.

   1.Warm 2 tbsp olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.

   2.Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent (5 min).

   3.Add the 2 sliced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant (30 sec).
4. 4
   simmer

   Add tomatoes and simmer the sauce.

   1.Pour in the hand-crushed tomatoes with all their juices.

   2.Stir in 0.25 tsp salt, a pinch of black pepper, and 0.5 tsp sugar.

   3.Bring to a bubble, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5
   simmer

   Finish the meatballs in the sauce.

   1.Nestle the baked meatballs into the marinara sauce.

   2.Cover and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes so the meatballs soak up flavor.

   3.Taste the sauce; adjust salt if needed.
6. 6
   garnish

   Finish with fresh basil and serve.

   Scatter the torn basil over the dish just before serving. Spoon meatballs and plenty of sauce into bowls.

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