Recipe description
July 26, 2026
Turkey meatballs in tomato sauce
Gentle turkey meatballs in tomato sauce support gut-friendly meals.
Easy Recipe
High Protein
78%
General Gut Health Match
This score is based on all ingredients included in the food recipe and provides a match score for the general population which is not personalized to your personal profile or gut microbiome test.
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Overall
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Takes about 2 minutes.
Why this recipe fits you
- Lean turkey provides a solid protein base for fullness and gut health.
- Tomato sauce, garlic, onion and oregano contribute polyphenols and flavor with minimal processing.
- Serve with whole grains or vegetables to boost dietary fiber and variety.
Gut Health Score
How these gut-support scores are calculated
These scores are estimated from the recipe’s ingredients, nutritional profile, and gut-health relevance. They are intended as practical guidance, not as medical advice.
Fiber support
Looks at fiber-rich ingredients such as legumes, vegetables, fruit, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
Polyphenol support
Reflects ingredients such as berries, herbs, spices, cocoa, olive oil, colorful vegetables, and other plant foods.
Diversity support
Considers the variety of plant-based ingredients used in the recipe.
Inflammation-balance support
Considers the balance between whole-food ingredients, healthy fats, added sugars, refined carbohydrates, and highly processed components.
Fermentation support
Reflects fermented ingredients or ingredients that may support microbial fermentation, such as prebiotic fibers.
Blood-sugar balance support
Considers fiber, protein, fat quality, added sugars, and the type of carbohydrates in the recipe.
Ingredients
Turkey
500
gram
Onion
1
piece
Garlic
2
clove
Bread-crumbs
50
gram
Egg
1
piece
Oil, olive
2
tablespoon
Tomato sauce
400
ml
Salt
1
teaspoon
Black pepper
0.5
teaspoon
Oregano
1
teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine turkey mince, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix until well combined.
2
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 3 cm in diameter.
3
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
4
Pour in tomato sauce, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5
Serve warm with whole grain pasta or steamed vegetables.
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Nutrition
540 kcal
Calories
52 g
Protein
42 g
Carbohydrates
5 g
Fiber
14 g
Sugar
28 g
Fat
6 g
Saturated fat
2.0 g
Salt
FAQ
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely; binding may be a little less firm.
How do I know the turkey meatballs are cooked through?
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to 74°C (165°F) in the center, or ensure the juices run clear and there is no pink.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes. Shape and freeze raw on a tray, then transfer to a bag; or freeze after cooking.
What should I serve with them?
Whole-grain pasta or steamed vegetables, plus a green salad if you like.
Can I prepare this in advance for weeknights?
Yes. You can make the meatballs ahead and refrigerate 1–2 days; the sauce can also be made ahead and reheated gently.
How can I adapt the recipe if I'm egg- or dairy-free?
For egg-free, use a flax egg or omit the egg; bind with a little extra breadcrumbs.
Can I substitute another lean meat?
Yes, chicken or lean pork works; cooking time may vary slightly.
How can I reduce the fat content?
Choose extra-lean turkey, and cook with little oil or bake the meatballs in the oven.
How long does the dish keep in the fridge?
Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking; 3–4 days in the fridge.
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