Heart-Healthy Classic Italian Polpette (Meatballs)

Rediscover comfort food with a wholesome twist in these Heart-Healthy Classic Italian Polpette (Meatballs). Crafted with lean ground turkey and whole wheat breadcrumbs, these flavorful meatballs are a lighter take on a beloved Italian classic. Infused with fresh parsley, minced garlic, and a touch of Parmesan, they simmer gently in a rich yet low-sodium marinara sauce for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying. With just 20 minutes of prep time, this easy recipe delivers a protein-packed, heart-smart meal that pairs beautifully with whole grain pasta or a crisp salad. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these tender, juicy meatballs bring authentic Italian flavor to your table—without the guilt.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams ground turkey (93% lean)
• 60 grams whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 30 grams grated Parmesan cheese
• 60 milliliters milk
• 15 grams fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 500 milliliters low-sodium marinara sauce

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, whole wheat breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, and milk. Mix until evenly combined.

Step 2

Add chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter, placing them on a plate as you go. This should yield about 16 meatballs.

Step 4

In a large non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

Step 5

Cook the meatballs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are browned all over. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6

In the same skillet, add the low-sodium marinara sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for additional flavor.

Step 7

Return the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are covered in the sauce. Cover the pan and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 15 minutes.

Step 8

Check that the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Step 9

Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired. Perfect with a side of whole grain pasta or a fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1267.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1903.1

Total Fat 101.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 27.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.6g
Cholesterol 720.1mg	0%
Sodium 3874.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 95.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.2g	0%
Total Sugars 29.5g
Protein 149.3g	0%

Vitamin D 81.0IU	0%
Calcium 670.1mg	0%
Iron 15.9mg	0%
Potassium 3305.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.1%

Protein: 31.6%

Carbs: 20.3%