Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Penne with Mini Turkey Meatballs

I really did not plan it, but I am giving you another pasta dish. Most of the time what I cook is what I find on sale. The last time I was at the store, ground turkey was on clearance. One of those buy today and use or freeze by tomorrow. I always take advantage of those sales because they normally save me 40 percent.

This is one of my husband's absolute favorites. I can sometimes even get him to roll the meatballs. My four year old loves this as well.

Penne with Mini Turkey Meatballs

Ingredients:
1 pound Penne - I use the new mini penne
1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley
2 large eggs
1 tbl milk
1 tbl ketchup
3/4 cup grated Parm/Romano cheese
3/4 tsp salt
3/4 tsp pepper
1 pound ground turkey Italian Style or plain
1/4 cup olive oil
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
4 cups grape tomatoes, halved
Parmesan
Grated Mozzarella
Basil

Directions:
  • Boil your noodles but keep them firm as they will continue to cook after they are drained.
  • In a medium bowl, combine bread crumbs, parsley, eggs, milk, ketchup, Parm/Romano cheese, and salt and pepper. Add the turkey and gently stir to combine.
  • Roll the turkey mixture into 1 inch balls. I usually use a teaspoon measure. You can use a tablespoon if you want them a little larger.
  • In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Cook the meatballs about two to three minutes on each side. Be careful not to overcook them. You want them to be a light golden brown color.
  • Add the chicken stock and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Using a wooden spoon, scrape the brown bits that cling to the bottom of the pan. Reduce heat to low and simmer until tomatoes are soft and meatballs are cooked through. Approximately 5 minutes.
  • Drain the pasta and reserve some of the water.
  • Place your pasta in a bowl and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Toss and add a little pasta water if pasta is sticking.
  • Add the meatball mixture and gently toss
  • Sprinkle with mozzarella and basil when serving.
  • Serve with a side salad and Enjoy!
**The picture is of my 4 year old son with a meatball in his cheek and trying to smile.**

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