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Giant Turkey Meatball Parmesan

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This Giant Turkey Meatball isn’t your regular meatball, is HUGE. A cross between a meatloaf and a meatball topped with marinara and melted cheese – I’m OBSESSED!

This Giant Turkey Meatball isn't your regular meatball, is HUGE, baked in the oven similar to how you would make a meatloaf, then topped with marinara and melted cheese – I'm OBSESSED!
Giant Turkey Meatball Parmesan

This Giant Turkey Meatball Parmesan creation is a result of asking my husband what he wants for dinner. Tommy doesn’t care about eating light, so naturally he comes up with some decadent ideas, and because I love a challenge I had to make it work. The results were so good it’s now on our monthly dinner rotation.

This Giant Turkey Meatball isn't your regular meatball, is HUGE, baked in the oven similar to how you would make a meatloaf, then topped with marinara and melted cheese – I'm OBSESSED!

I created this recipe in partnership with Delallo Foods. You’ve probably heard me talk about them before, I love working with them because I really love their products. For instance, I was a jarred marinara sauce snob (hey, I live in NY!) before I tried their jarred Pomodoro Fresco sauce. A had a jar to sample and reluctantly used it one night when I didn’t have time to cook. I was hooked, even my Italian husband approves so now I always keep a few jars on hand. Using their jarred sauce makes this SO quick and easy to prep. Although it takes a little time to bake in the oven, you’re freed up to do other things while it cooks.

A few tips to make this perfect, don’t overwork the meat when mixing and when you form your giant meatball you want to make it a little flat on top so the sauce and cheese doesn’t roll off. We enjoyed this with a big salad, hope you love it as much as we do!

How To Make a Giant Baked Turkey Meatball

For more ground turkey recipes:

Skinnytaste High Protein cookbook protein

Giant Turkey Meatball Parmesan

4.93 from 99 votes
3
Cals:274
Protein:27
Carbs:9.5
Fat:14
Fiber:1
This Giant Turkey Meatball isn't your regular meatball, is HUGE, baked in the oven similar to how you would make a meatloaf, then topped with marinara and melted cheese – I'm OBSESSED!
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
This Giant Turkey Meatball isn't your regular meatball, is HUGE, baked in the oven similar to how you would make a meatloaf, then topped with marinara and melted cheese – I'm OBSESSED!
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 55 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Yield: 4 Servings
Serving Size: 2 slices

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • In a medium bowl combine turkey, breadcrumbs, pecorino, egg, garlic, tomato paste, parsley and salt and gently mix to combine. Form into an oval loaf using your hands, slightly flattened at the top on a nonstick baking sheet. Bake uncovered 50 to 55 minutes, or until it's cooked in the center and the internal temperature of 160 °F with a thermometer. Remove from oven, top with marinara and cheese and bake 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce is hot and the cheese is melted.
  • Slice in 8 equal pieces. Serve with more warmed sauce on the side if desired.

Last Step:

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Nutrition

Serving: 2 slices, Calories: 274 kcal, Carbohydrates: 9.5 g, Protein: 27 g, Fat: 14 g, Saturated Fat: 3 g, Cholesterol: 140 mg, Sodium: 596.5 mg, Fiber: 1 g, Sugar: 2 g

This Giant Turkey Meatball isn't your regular meatball, is HUGE, baked in the oven similar to how you would make a meatloaf, then topped with marinara and melted cheese – I'm OBSESSED! This Giant Turkey Meatball isn't your regular meatball, is HUGE, baked in the oven similar to how you would make a meatloaf, then topped with marinara and melted cheese – I'm OBSESSED!

Recipe created in partnership with Delallo Foods, a brand I love and use in my kitchen.

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358 comments on “Giant Turkey Meatball Parmesan”

  1. Avatar photo
    Michelle Pernatozzi

    I doctor it up…I’m italian added chopped onion italian seasoning extra tomatoe paste

  2. My partner said it’s the best meatloaf he’s ever had. I used dried parsley and added 1/2 tsp onion powder. I’m putting the leftovers into a quick lasagna for two. So good!

  3. Hi, this was delicious! I joined WW a year ago, have lost 62 pounds and just found you (wish it had been sooner!). This is listed as a WW recipe but I’m not seeing what the WW point value is. Can you help? Thank you!

  4. I love turkey meatloaf but this didn’t cut it for me. I thought it didn’t have enough flavor. I used the Delallo crushed tomatoes to make a marinara & found this brand to be bitter. So I guess I will stick to regular Skinnytaste Turkey meatloaf instead.

    1. For me the original recipe does not have quite enough flavor. However, I just add onions, three cloves of garlic, worchestershire, extra tomato paste, & Italian seasoning. I make this about once a month & really enjoy it.

    2. For me the original recipe does not have quite enough flavor. However, I just add onions, three cloves of garlic, worchestershire, extra tomato paste, & Italian seasoning. I make this about once a month & really enjoy it.

  5. I halved the recipe as there only two of us and we still have another portion for leftovers. This has an excellent flavor and texture. Will definitely make it again and possibly even use the recipe without the sauce for a healthy meatloaf.

  6. This recipe is so easy and full of flavor. I made it with a side of red skinned mashed potatoes and it is Sunday supper perfection!

    Also, I’m one person and some recipes end up with a lot of leftovers for one person. This one though is the perfect amount for a good meal and then 2-3 days of leftovers.

  7. I have made this a couple of times and we absolutely loved it each time! Like other reviewers, I made it into meatballs to reduce the cooking time. I omit the parsley and use Parmesan because I usually have that in the house. This is definitely in our dinner rotation now!

  8. Delicious and better than any meatball I have ever eaten. I have substituted both ground beef and ground chicken and the recipe is not nearly as good. So, stick with the turkey. My sister made this dish for her husband, who does not like meatloaf, and it is now one of his favorite meals. Another easy win-win. Thank you Gina.

  9. Always a great recipe. Tasty and easy. Served over noodles and more marinara for my child and with a side of roasted cauliflower for me.

  10. Love this! I make three smaller meatballs instead. It takes less time to cook and we each have our own meatball!

    1. What a great idea! There are two of us, and when I make it, it is enough for two meals. I could make this and portion it out for four servings. Thanks for the great idea!

  11. I made this with one change – I used ground chicken instead of ground turkey. I make your chicken meatballs regularly. Husband and I agree the chicken meatballs are better.

  12. So good. I made it as four medium meatballs (instead of one giant meatball) because I was pressed for time. They were delicious – moist and flavorful.

  13. Made this for the first time on Monday. So yummy and such a simple thing to make. My husband and I really enjoyed it. Thank you!!

  14. Delicious!  Should be a top ten!  I had some ground Turkey I didn’t know what to do with.  Fortunately for me I had all of the ingredients!   So good!  Love Skinny Taste recipes! My go to weekly menu planning site!

  15. This is probably the Skinnytaste recipe I make the most. My son asks for it when he comes home from college! I make it into 4 still giant meatballs because everyone seems to love getting their own giant meatball 😂 and serve over whole wheat pasta or zoodles. So delicious and reheat well when we are empty nesters. 

      1. Meatballs usually cook in about 10 min, depending on the size.  Check them with a meat thermometer if you aren’t sure.  Should be at least 165 degrees

  16. This was absolutely delicious! I used Italian breadcrumbs and a jarred cheese mixture that was asiago/parmesan/Romano. Can’t wait to make it again.

  17. Avatar photo
    Allison Dabney

    Made it exactly as written (other than using Rao’s Marinara as the sauce) – it was so easy and so good. I imagine it would would be amazing as a sandwich with the leftovers (just like a meatball sub!). Just wish a baguette wasn’t so high in points because that’s what I would be eating tomorrow! This recipe is being saved and will be made again. Already sent the link to my sister as well. 

      1. The meat could freeze and I’d put the cheese on after thawing and baking most of the way.
        It’s an odd shape to put in a freezer, and there aren’t many ingredients (quick preparation), so I would just make it fresh.

  18. My Kids love this!! Me too 😀
    I’ve started making a couple at a time, and freezing before baking. I thaw in the fridge the day I make it and the. Bake when I get home.

  19. Big hit with my two kids and husband. Assembled the meatloaf ahead in the morning and baked it in the evening. Perfect. So much easier than a bunch of meatballs.

  20. My husband, mother in law and I LOVED this! I used ground chicken instead of turkey as that is what I had on hand and I mixed the meat around 11am, putting in the oven at 530. I served it over zoodles and used Rao’s marinara. Definitely a repeat meal on the menu!

  21. Yo, tasty and moist turkey meatloaf without having to take out the food processor? That’s what’s up. This recipe is a delicious comfort-food keeper, and everyone needs to make it stat.

  22. I accidentally put the marinara IN the meatball mix, whoops! It’s baking now so fingers crossed it doesn’t come out too tomato-y 🤞

  23. I made this last night, and I cannot stop thinking about how excited I am to eat the leftovers! It was soooo good that I immediately sent the recipe to my mom, my sister, and a couple of my friends. The only things I changed are that I used ground chicken instead of ground turkey because that’s what I had in the house, and I split it into two meatballs instead of one big one. It took about 30 min to cook and then I put it back in for a few minutes to melt the cheese on top. This will definitely become a regular in my house! I didn’t have breadcrumbs so I baked a slice of 647 Italian bread in the oven for 20 minutes (flipped halfway) and then blitzed it in the food processor with some Italian seasoning to turn it into breadcrumbs. I also didn’t have fresh parsley so I used dried and it worked perfectly. Thanks for this super easy, delicious recipe, Gina (and maybe thanks to your husband as well… haha!)

  24. Avatar photo
    Dawn Kucharczuk

    Oh my! This was delicious! The family gave it rave reviews! 
    Easy to make. Got 3lb pack of 93% to make three meatballs-gotta say I was hesitant – thought it would be dry-not at all! Very moist and great Italian flavor.  Even my picky meat eating son liked it. 

  25. I’ve been eyeing this recipe for quite a while.  Today was the day I finally made it. My only  regret is that I didn’t make it sooner!  I was very hesitant to use ground turkey as it always seems to have a strange aftertaste.  Not in this recipe!  It’s perfect. My picky 13 year old went back for seconds!  I tripled the recipe and made 12 meatballs that were about a half a cup in size. They took 30 ish minutes to bake.  Will be making these again and again!

  26. Avatar photo
    Janine Sweitzer

    We love this so much, it’s tasty, pretty healthy and easy to make. We are a family of 6, so I use 4lbs of ground turkey and make 2 giant, giant turkey meatballs. We then have some leftovers for some lunches the next day. I also just use ketchup instead of the tomato paste, it’s easier and always on hand. I also use any brand of quality marinara and use a full jar split between the two meatballs so we can spoon extra sauce on top when serving. Definitely a hit with my family, I have used so many of your recipes frequently over the years, thank you ! 

    1. I just made this tonight and it was amazing!!! I will never make a beef meatloaf again. My husband and I are on WW and the points count has been so helpful. All of my meals have been yours so far. This is a favorite and will go into the weekly menu! Can’t wait to try more.

  27. We have made this a ton of times and love it! We put it into a loaf pan this last time and it was even better! 

  28. We’re big meatloaf fans so when I saw this made with turkey I just had to try it!  Prepared as written.  It has such good flavor and the turkey was nice and moist.  Served it over zucchini zoodles and a big salad.  Saving the leftovers for my granddaughter and will serve her’s with pasta!  She’s picky so we’ll see😂

  29. If you want to make one recipe that everyone will agree on THIS is it…a real crowd pleaser. I use Rao’s instead of Delallo and nobody seems to mind. Also, I substituted ketchup for tomato paste today…again, nobody seems to mind. This recipe is definitely a winner!!

  30. I’m obsessed, I’ve been making this recipe for years now for the fam. I’ve never liked any recipes with ground turkey. This recipe changed my mind completely.

  31. I don’t like ground turkey, but this recipe changed my thoughts on ground turkey. These recipes are amazing, tasteful and easy! I want to thank my daughter Rhonda for bringing these recipes to me!

  32. Avatar photo
    twelvetwentyfour

    I portioned this into 8 smaller meatballs as there is no way my kids would be satisfied with a slice of meatball. Took about 20 ish minutes to cook. I served it with home made pasta with marinara sauce for the rest of the family. I kept my points low by enjoying it with zucchinni noodles. It was out of this world delicious!
    My kids (age 4, 4, and 7, who usually hate all things pasta related) told me that it was the best dinner they have ever tasted. They all went in for seconds on the meatball, which was so juicy and flavourful!
    I will definately be making again. This one is a keeper – a quick and easy weekday meal, especially if made into smaller “giant” meatballs.

  33. This is a family favorite in my house! I usually shape it into 2 large meatballs instead of one giant which cuts the cooking time in half. I always serve it with a 50/50 blend of zoodles and thin spaghetti topped with additional marinara.

  34. Ok. I need some help. I LOVE this. The first few times I made it it came out perfect. I use ground meat instead because we don’t really like ground turkey. However, the last  times I made it the inside looks pink. Even if I cook it longer than the time it says. Is it the type of meat I’m using?  

    1. Its possible ground beef could use more time but this was not tested with beef so not sure. Next time use a instant read thermometer.

  35. Avatar photo
    Kelly Schmidt

    Have made this recipe many, many, many times. It is really tasty and simple to make. Highly recommend it!

  36. Wow this was SO good! It was recommended by many people so I decided to give it a shot. It was delicious! Will absolutely be making again! I paired it with the marinara sauce recipe and it was just perfect! 

  37. Avatar photo
    Stephanie W.

    This was great.  I was short on time for a weeknight meal so I did alter it slightly. I had 1.5 pounds of turkey, so I divided it up among 6 mini meat loaves.  I cooked it at 400 for 25 minutes since I was also roasting cauliflower and finished with sauce and cheese as directed. By making it into mini meat loaves I was able to add more sauce and cheese to the kids’ without adding extra calories to my portion. My 12 year old asked for more

  38. Avatar photo
    Joanne Brindisi

    I made this tonight. It was absolutely delicious. I make turkey meatballs quite often but they don’t taste as good as the giant meatball. I think I’ll use this recipe next time I make a lot of smaller meatballs. 

  39. I love this recipe but I double it. I use 99% turkey with hot turkey italian sausage. So good it make with one very large meatball or some times I make it into two and freeze one before it’s cooked. THe sausage lets me be lazy if I don’t feel like chopping garlic or parsley. This is a winner. 
    Thank Gina love all your recipes

  40. So good! Thanks, I use your recipes often. Everything is always so flavourful while still being lighter on calories. My family (including picky eater kids) always love everything I make from your website. This turkey meatball is no exception! My kids love the fact that it’s a “giant meatball”. It’s so easy to make and tastes delicious! Have made this a handful of times in the last few years and it’s in the oven as we speak, can’t wait for supper! 

  41. DeLallo’s! I’m a big fan, from my days in Pennsylvania. Their store is an amazing food shopping experience. I’m so happy to see their products available here in the South.

  42. I made this using 99% lean ground turkey. I doubled the recipe and substituted jar tomato sauce for tomato paste. Otherwise everything was the same. It made 24 meatballs. I cooked them in the oven on 375 for about 20 minutes. I probably overcooked them a little bit, but I would rather be safe than sorry. I just add five and a little grated cheese when I’m ready to eat. Love the recipe. Thanks! 

  43. It was delicious! Didn’t stray from the recipe although I couldn’t find the brand mentioned for the marinara and used one I’ve liked in the past. Regardless it was a hit! Served it with a side Caesar salad.  Will definitely make again!

  44. Awesome dish!  I used 3/4lbs of ground sirloin and 1/4 lb of Italian sausage for my meat mixture.  This is a keeper on so many levels and can be switched up for many variations!

  45. The turkey ball has become a regular in our rotation. Great taste, easy to make. We freeze half and enjoy it again later. One prep, two meals!

  46. Avatar photo
    Kenna Valentine

    A new family favorite!!! Made this for the first time tonight. It was so easy!!! My 3 kids inhaled it! Good thing my husband wasn’t home. Next time, I will make 2 giant meatballs so that there are left overs. I served it with Edamame pasta with the rest of the jar of marina sauce and a salad.

  47. The whole family loves this one! We break it into two less giant meatballs, We like more of the crispy edges! 

  48. Avatar photo
    Nicole Ingram

    Easy and absolutely delicious!! This was my second time making it. I added some basil to the meatball and served with zoodles with marinara. Can’t wait to make it again!

  49. My family loves this turkey parmesan meatball.!  It’s so moist and you’d never know it’s turkey. Filled with flavor. I always double recipe and make 2 separate meatballs because we like the leftovers just as well!  It’s perfect every time! We serve w salad and mashed potatoes or pasta.  Love Skinnytaste recipes! Healthy food that tastes great!

  50. Loved this.  Would like more cheese on it but not going to add more points!  I had it with a side of spaghetti squash topped with marinara.   Thanks Gina.

  51. At my local HEB they don’t have the regular DeLallo Pomodoro Fresco. But they do have the basil version and garlic version. Have you tried either of those? Which would you recommend for this recipe?

  52. Avatar photo
    Beth Gordulic

    OMG!!! DELICIOUS! I made mine into 3 meatballs and cooked for 40 minutes. Big hit with everyone!

  53. This looks delicious! My son has an egg allergy. I often substitute 1/4 cup of tomato sauce for egg when making meatloaf. Has anyone tried this or any other egg substitute for this recipe? Thank you!

    1. I’m also allergic to egg so I subbed 1/4 c tomato sauce for the egg in this recipe.  Not sure that it made much difference though as I used 99% ground turkey breast and found the end product to be too dry for my taste.  Next time, I will use ground turkey instead and either try the tomato sauce again or use Aquafaba (chickpea brine) in place of the egg.  Despite the texture, this turkey meatball was really flavorful – just needs tweaking on my end. 

      1. My daughter has an egg allergy.  I have made this several times and just omitted the egg – we haven’t noticed! 

  54. My husband dislikes meatloaf so much that for 40+ years I have not made it. So when I served this I told him it was a giant meatball…AND he was okay with that, in fact, he liked it. This is really good and I agree, I think it would be dry if you use ground turkey breast. So delicious. Thanks again Gina for another winner! I cooked it to 160 before I added cheese and marinara on top (temp rises rather fast after 140) and I worried that it was going to be overcooked, but no problem, it was still moist.

    1. HI Cindy,
      My husband feels the exact same way. He says he doesn’t like meatloaf, but loves this BIG MEATBALL.

  55. I know you sometimes endorse products so was wondering if we can use your homemade easy marinara recipe instead? Seems like a “no brainer” to me unless the Delallo is a different texture, flavor or consistency than any other marinara? I’ve got this waiting to go in the oven tonight alongside of butternut squash noodles/fettucine mix with your skinny pesto and roasted veggies combined!

  56. Thank you so much for this recipe! Everyone loved it including my son who is extremely picky. Really, thank you!

  57. I made this but made regular sized meatballs and froze them so I could just take a few out and bake them when I wanted. I did add onion, though. I, personally, think it needs some onion.

  58. Has anyone made this in the air fryer? If so, how long & temperature & did you put the sauce on top when you cooked it? Did you put it on the rack or just bottom of basket? 

  59. Very yummy! When I put all of the ingredients in WW, it says 3 points. I didn’t change a thing. Any idea why? 

  60. I made this last night and it was so simple and absolutely delicious! I cannot wait to make it again!!

  61. this is a favorite in our house! is there a way to make this Keto? I have heard that instead of bread crumbs you can add pumpkin but i have no idea how much to add.

  62. Avatar photo
    Lisa Siegman

    This was absolutely delicious!!! The Pomodoro Fresco Marinara sauce was so fresh tasting and delicious I have placed another order and added additional items! My husband even LOVED this meal!!

  63. Delicious! My fussy eater kids said, and I quote, “this is really good, mum – can you make this every week?”. So nice to find recipes that we all appreciate! Thank you!!

  64. Avatar photo
    Kaylee Mercado

    Amazing recipe! Would there be a point difference if you use 99% fat free turkey instead of 93%?

    1. I make a double recipe and use half turkey breast and half 93% turkey. Less WW points and it is not dry. 

  65. Scrolling thru my favs on bloglovin in sore need of inspiration for the low carb recommittment and remembered this one.
    Basically just used the idea and went from there. Made them somewhat smaller – individual servings, – used a mix of beef and pork and kinda did my own thing with the seasoning…….oregano, fresh basil, so on.. Served on a bed of arugula, tossed with vinaigrette. Made a truly decadent meal for someone on a restricted diet and .satisfied that longing for Italian food.

  66. Make. This. Recipe. The meatball didn’t even taste like turkey to me, and my husband agreed. This one is going into regular rotation for me (and not just in the healthy meal category). Thanks for the recipe!

  67. Avatar photo
    Jennifer Bleau

    This is my husband’s favorite recipe! He requests it all the time! I use the 99% fat free turkey though since it’s a zero point food item. I have to make 2 of them though because my husband wants a whole one for himself! Lol! Making this tonight. Thanks for a delicious recipe! I haven’t had one of your recipes that I don’t like. 🙂

  68. What could I substitute for bread crumbs to make this Keto?  I can never seem to get substitutions right! 

  69. Once I got past the idea of this being a giant meatball (it’s a lovely meatloaf), I tried it and have never tasted a more delicious meatloaf. And I’ve tried A LOT of them. I used a bit of dried oregano since I didn’t have any parsley, but other than that, went true to the recipe. Making it again today!

  70. I LOVE this recipe AND this site.  I’m doing weight watchers and love that your recipes have all the Freestyle points.   I’m down almost 45# since January and love that I’ve found some great recipes to aid me in that journey!  Thanks!!!

  71. Made this for  dinner this evening…..delicious!   I splithmixture into four large meatballs so it would bake quicker and also because hubs and I both like the crusty edges of “meatloaf”.  This also made portioning super easy, one meatball equals one portion!  I rounded the meal out with a green salad, baked zucchini sticks, and small portions of carb smart pasta, allowing me to use the opened jar of marinara.   Will definitely make this entire meal again!

  72. I made this tonight and was giggling to myself the entire time! It really is absolutely hysterical to make a giant meatball parm – lol, I’m still giggling! And the fact that it was delicious at the same time – what a winner. Yum yum!

  73. Outstanding – so flavorful and much faster than rolling individual meatballs. Served with Angel Hair pasta and a Salad.

  74. Little disappointed because that amount of cheese that looks delish is not a 1/4 of a cup.  I made this and a 1/4 barely covered the meat.  

  75. Avatar photo
    Laura Mannino

    I used 99 percent lean turkey, it did not add up to 6 pts. It was only 3 pts……why???? am I doing something wrong or is it that I used leaner Turkey??

  76. Had this on my “to make” list for quite a while and finally got around to making last night for dinner. it was awesome! I am typically not a fan of ground turkey, it’s just okay for me, but it was really delicious in this recipe! For sure going to be making again.

  77. Avatar photo
    Jessica L. Snyder

    Another successful recipe! The family loved it, and they stil have no idea that they are eating better! Thank you for this one! 

  78. Do you think using 99% lean ground turkey would affect the cooking or taste of this dish? This could be the dish of a lifetime on freestyle! 

  79. Any idea how many WW points if you use 99% lean turkey breast? Love this recipe. And I added sundried tomatoes (not in oil) and they are a nice flavor boost!

  80. FANTASTIC!!! My husband requested this to be added to our rotation and my son for the first time ever, was silent because he couldn’t eat it fast enough. Loved how easy, healthy and delicious it was.

  81. I really don’t like ground turkey. I tried this for dinner and it was delicious! If you hate ground turkey, TRY IT!!

  82. This was delicious! But I can’t see how it can possibly add up to 6 SP on the Freestyle plan- when I used the recipe builder it was 3 SP per serving.

    Will definitely be making it again!

    1. Cat, if you read Gina’s nutrition info, the recipe makes 4 servings. If you only eat 1 slice (of the 8), it’s 3 SP. As written, two slices is one serving and is 6 SP

  83. What would happen if I accidentally put in the whole can of paste….oops.. We shall see, it’s cooking now…

  84. Just yum. If you’re not sure, you’ve just got to go for it. It is so very, very well worth it. Amazing…

  85. DELICIOUS! This was a big hit for dinner last night. My 3 yr and 8 yr old gobbled this up and asked for seconds! Excellent and easy! Thank you!

  86. This was seriously amazing! I wish I had doubled the recipe! My 10 year old son said I should open a restaurant with all these yummy recipes I get from Skinnytaste. 🙂 He might be on to something, Gina! Thanks for another great one!

  87. Every time I try to subscribe to your newsletter it tells me my email address (that works perfectly fine for everyone else) is not valid. Why?

  88. This recipe is quick, easy and delicious. Perfect when you need to mealprep but don’t have much time! When making this, I often make two and freeze the servings from the extra one! I always add some extra sauce and eat it over whole grain, chickpea or lentil pasta and vegetables.

  89. I used way more cheese than I was supposed to on top, but this was really good! My fiancé said it was OK but not his favorite. I probably should have served it with something LOL. 

  90. If I double the recipe, should I cook giant meatball in the oven for double the time? 🙂

    Thank you for any advice!

    1. I doubled it. After an additional 10 minutes of cooking prior to adding the sauce and cheese, the interior temp was 172. Delicious!

  91. Looooooooove DeLallo’s! So happy you’ve discovered them. I live on the same street as their Restaurant (in fact my daughter works there) – lucky me!

    1. I used to live about 15 mins from the store and didn’t appreciate it nearly as much as I do now, living 2500 miles away! Lol 🙁

  92. This was fabulous. My son is a very picky eater and devoured it. You’ve helped us get our New Year off to a great start.

  93. I made this last week and being a person who is not a fan of ground turkey, I was a little worried, but it turned out absolutely fantastic! I’m also not super big on leftovers, and I at this for lunch 3 days in a row! I made it using gluten free breadcrumbs and it tasted so good. I’m going to make again this weekend, but instead make into smaller meatballs to pair with the bacon parmesan spaghetti squash recipe also on this site. Seemed like a good winter meal!

  94. I made this last night and it was really good and super easy to make! I will be making this again for sure.

    1. It should freeze fine. If you freeze after cooking, I would slice and wrap each piece so you can grab and go as needed. Also I would maybe portion up the tomato sauce into baggies and freeze separate.

  95. Made this tonight and it was delicious!  I didn’t have tomato paste so I substituted some of the sauce and it worked out well. Can’t wait to eat those leftovers for lunch tomorrow too. That might be one of my favorite things about your recipes – they all heat up well the next day! 

  96. Avatar photo
    Elizabeth A McKenzie

    This was delicious! Perfect meal with mashed cauliflower and a green salad. Putting this one in the regular rotation.

    1. I’ve done this recipe a couple of times. I used to always use the tomato paste and then end up having to throw the rest away because it gets old (I don’t use it often). Then, one night, I forgot to buy the tomato paste so I just used about 1 to 1 1/2tablespoons of the marinara and it worked out perfectly. No need to purchase tomato paste anymore! 🙂

      1. I take leftover tomato paste and put it in a zipper bag, flatten it and freeze. I can break off small bits for recipes.

      2. I freeze two tbsp lumps in ice cube trays then pop in a bag in the freezer.  Pop out when I need tomato paste!  

      3. I buy the Cento tomato paste in a tube.  Use what you need & keep the rest in the fridge.  

  97. Do you use full fat or part skim mozzarella? I use part skim but I can’t get it to melt as shown in the picture.

    Other than that it was super tasty! I had simmered a can of tutturosa crushed tomatoes with a bay leaf and garlic oil for about 5 hours in my crockpot the previous day to use with zoodles and your crispy shrimp, so I just used that sauce on top of the meatloaf instead of the marinara.

    1. I used part skim when I made this last night and it melted ok but I did turn the oven up a bit for that part.

  98. I just finished eating this and I loved it,  it tastes like a delicious meatball.   I’ve been following Skinnytaste for years and I rave about this site to all my friends.  Love so many of your recipes.    Keep doing what you do, Gina!   Thank you

  99. This was SO good.  I didn’t have fresh parsley so I used dry and added a handful of fresh chopped basil.  I will definitely be making this again.

  100. I made this tonight.  I had my portion over grated zucchini (I grate it and microwave it for a minute).  Delish!!  

  101. I just made this tonight and OMG it is SO good! Super moist and full of flavor! Can’t wait to try more of your recipes! 

  102. Omg!!! Made this it was freakin awesome!!! Lol soooo good! I can’t believe this is healthy it tastes so good!! I love your blog it really has shown me you can still get excited about food and Still be healthy! Thank You for your recipes and delicious ideas!!!! Can’t wait to get more!!♡♡♡♡♡ You make it so easy to stay on track because the food is delicious I don’t feel like I’m being deprived at all!!!

  103. My children devoured this the first time I made it and requested it for dinner again the next day. We love it! My husband is not a fan of  turkey but he loved it too. I’m making it into a Whole30 version tonight, almond flour/meal for the breadcrumbs and no cheese. Can’t wait to see how it turns out. 

  104. Just wondering how the smart point value would change with 99% ground turkey rather than the 94%? I always have trouble figuring that out!!! Thank you for all of the amazing recipes, they have been a huge hit in my house!!!

  105. I’ve been making this recipe for a while. The only “problem” is that my teenagers love it so much, that I have to double the recipe every time. Swimmers eat a lot!! Love this one!!!

  106. Avatar photo
    Christine Scheetz

    Is that parchment paper you’re using on your baking sheet (depicted in the picture)? Thank you! (Love your recipes!!)

  107. I’ve made this recipe once per week for the past month. It is simple to make and tastes excellent. Really a great meal and  the leftovers taste just as great! Cheers

    1. You can serve it with a salad, or https://www.skinnytaste.com/broccoli-and-orzo/, or really any side you like!

  108. Avatar photo
    Heather Jerrolds

    For the past 8 years, I have cooked your recipes for dinner every night. Thank you. I had initially lost 30 pounds and can easily maintain it with your recipes. I am very grateful. We adopted our daughter last night, after waiting 3 1/2 years. Her favorite is meatballs. We are so excited to make this to celebrate. Thank you. This is perfect!!!

  109. Hi Gina!,I LOVE your recipes so keep them coming! One question I am following weight watchers and want to know since you say the cheese is optional is it included in the 7 smart points? Thanks!!!!

  110. Made this tonight, but it took way longer than the recipe stated. I think i had slightly more meat than called for, but it was raw when i took it out 🙁 Even with 15 extra minutes the middle was still severely (30 degrees) undercooked. I had to slice up in order to cook for longer. Kind of defeats the purpose of the giant meatball…Surprising because usually i have no problems with your recipes! Would not make as is again, the taste was good but i would definitely make smaller meatballs.

    1. If you changed the recipe by using more meat, then I’m not surprised. More meat would mean more time in the oven.

  111. had this for dinner tonight. It was INCREDIBLE. We had it with skinny taste puree’d cauliflower. Perfect perfect – everyone lovede it. My men eat a lot so for us it was 3 perfect servings. 

  112. Love, love your ideas. Particularly how you separate ingredients needed for individual steps. It is also extremely convenient in that you use a lot of the same ingredients for different recipes. This meatball recipe is fabulous! Serving it with zucchini noodles and some broccoli rabe.

  113. I just created this meal in my WW calculator and it’s coming up 6 Smartpoints instead of the 7 you show.  Am I missing something???

  114. This is SOOOO good. My husband and I are not “meatloaf people”, but this version is so delicious! We paired it with spaghetti squash! It will definitely become a regular! Thank you for the great recipe!

  115. I made this for dinner tonight and my fiancée actually requested that it go into the regular rotation, which he has only done one time before. I served it with your roasted green beans and they were wonderful together. Your recipes are really helping with our “operation sexy newlyweds” plan. 

  116. Could one use egg whites, instead of a regular egg? It is all I currently have on hand. Thoughts?
    Thank you!

  117. I made this last night paired with your Zoodle recipe — We LOVED it! It was absolutely simple to make and so delicious! I have been making your recipes 4-5 nights a week since the first of the year and we have all loved every single one of them! Thank you so much for sharing your talent with all of us!

    Zucchini Lasagna is on the menu for next week! 🙂 Can’t wait!

    M. Myers

  118. I just wanted to say thank you for this recipe!! My husband and I started Weight Watchers 3 weeks ago to help me lose the remaining baby weight from my daughter I had 4.5 months ago. We tried this and absolutely love it!  I have made it 4 times already. Definitely a new weekly staple. Looking forward to trying many more of your recipes!

  119. I made this last night for dinner and it was amazing! I added crushed red pepper to the meatball and served it with spaghetti squash. My boyfriend who is a picky eater also loved it! I will absolutely be making this again soon. 

  120. GIna I’m OBSESSED with this recipe! So fun, simple, easy but absolutely YUM! I make about every other week.

  121. I made this one last night for dinner….it’s very tasty and easy peasy…just took a few minutes to mix it up and get it in the oven. I served it with steamed broccoli and a garlic knot. Thanks for the recipe!

  122. Avatar photo
    Fiona atkinson

    I live in the uk. What can i use instead of Delallo sauce. Definately want to make this, can i make my iwn tomato sauce? Love your recipes. Thank you for sharing! X

  123. Wow!!!! My whole family loved this recipe! So delicious- I am down 50 pounds with WW and I can’t get enough of your awesome recipes! My husband said don’t change a thing next time. I made a double batch because I knew this one would be a hit and now we can enjoy it again tomorrow for lunch!

  124. Gina. I just recently rejoined weight watchers and have used your recipes in the past. I also have your wonderful cookbook. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to cooking and making weight watcher friendly recipes. I plan on making this giant meatball for my hubby and I one night. Thank you again for creating such wonderful and healthy recipes. 

  125. Made this today – so easy and was really delicious ????. 
    I follow ww abd love that you share points

  126. GIna Gina Gina. What a yummy yummy meatball! I have used a lot of your recipes on here to lose weight. 50lbs since Jan 2016!! I love your portion sizes and how everything  is laid out for you !  My husband scoffed at me weighing everything at first but has since joined me in my weight loss. I’m now done to my goal weight so I can enjoy a glaaa of wine with supper. Thank you
    For all your hard work !  This meatball was a hit in our house. I paired it with the cauliflower fritters and made meatball sandwiches ! So so good !!! I can’t wait to see what 2017 brings !!! 

  127. Avatar photo
    Laura Connell

    This recipe is awesome! I couldn’t wait to make it when I saw it on your Facebook page. I prefer ground beef so I used that and it didn’t affect the points (put it in the recipe builder to check) so that’s a big win! Meatballs are one of my favorite foods and I have never made them myself because I was a little intimidated but since it was one of your recipes and I have had so much success with your recipes before I thought “I can do this!” Did 4 smaller balls because I like to have pre-portioned sizes so I don’t cheat and “just a little more” myself into eating double what I need to! Added some thyme to the meatball mix for a little extra flavor, and used Rao’s marinara since that’s the only jarred marinara I have found that I like. Love your site and love everything I have made from it so far. Honestly, I rarely cook but when I do it’s one of your recipes 90% of the time. 

  128. For another variation (and one of my favorites), try using salsa instead of a red sauce or marinara. I like medium salsa on top of a meatloaf. It’s wonderful.
    If you _really_ want to get crazy, try this:
    1 lb ground meat (beef or turkey), 1 box of stovetop stuffing (chicken), 1 egg, 1 bottle of your favorite marinade (I like Cajun or mesquite). Put entire box of stuffing into a bowl and pour in the bottle of marinade and mix. If you use a barbeque or other thick sauce, you may need to add some water. Give the liquid some time to soften the dry stuffing, about 5 minutes. Then add remaining ingredients. Form into a loaf on a cookie sheet (same as the turkey meatball parm recipe) and bake at 375 for 40 minutes. OMG!

  129. Avatar photo
    Michelle Apuzzio

    I made this tonight and it was easy, delicious, and fun! That does not usually happen on a Monday night!

  130. I made this tonight for my 5 year old son’s birthday because he loves meatballs. He thought a giant meatball was hilarious. It was delicious and a big hit with the whole family. I make your recipes all the time and I haven’t had a bad one yet. Thank you!

  131. Just made this tonight…..AAAAA-MAAAAZING!!! Really really great flavor. I could not find the Delallo sauce at my grocery store so I made your Quick Marinara Sauce (https://www.skinnytaste.com/quick-marinara-sauce/) to go with it (love how easy this sauce is to make!) and it tasted great together! Thank you for another fantastic recipe!! 

  132. Avatar photo
    Gina Skourtis

    HI Gina, This is my first time trying a recipe. I doubled the turkey parm. Can you let me know how long to cook it. Thank you Gina

  133. Just wanted to share that I made this with almond flour (seasoned with oregano, basil and grey salt) in place of the breadcrumbs to make it gluten free and low carb, and it was delicious! I don’t normally buy jarred sauce either thanks to your recipes, but Shop-Rite had the Delallo marinara on sale for $3 so I tried it and wow, it’s amazing! I used the leftover sauce for your stove-top chicken cacciatore recipe too, also delicious. My husband made a meatball sandwich with the leftovers and I’m making this again tonight. Thank you!

  134. I made the Giant Turkey Meatball tonight, wow…so so tasty, will be making again, got your 2nd cookbook yesterday, you are amazing, I have been making your recipes for years, keep them coming! Thanks Gina 

  135. I’m having a hard time finding the Delallo marinara sauce.

    What’s another good marinara brand you can recommend to use with this recipe?

    1. Avatar photo
      Dalovely Damanda

      I couldn’t find the Delallo sauce either so I made it tonight with Gina’s Quick Marinara Sauce: https://www.skinnytaste.com/quick-marinara-sauce/
      So easy and so tasty!!

  136. Hi, Gina! I see a lot of meatball/meatloaf recipes I would love to try, but my son has an egg allergy. Any recommendations on making this egg-free? Thanks!

    1. I have read that 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with water is a sub as is tablespoon of flax seeds mixed with ¼ cup of hot water. Let me know if you try either!

  137. So good. I used chicken and not turkey. It tasted like chicken parm. I really liked Delallo’s sauce. I wouldn’t normally spend $5 for a jar of sauce but it was a goood sauce.

  138. Avatar photo
    Linda Calvert

    This recipe is great in so many ways. It was easy to prep before work, ready to pop in the oven when I got home. The flavors are wonderful. I added a small side of gluten free pasta and some asparagus as sides. Week 49 was the first week that I used your meal plan and I have to thank you for doing this. I made everything except the salmon. I will make it! 

  139. I made this 2 nights ago and my hubby and I LOVED it! The only substitution I made was I used shredded Asiago cheese because I couldn’t find Pecorino Romano. It was fantastic! And thanks for the tip about Delallo sauce – I am now a convert. My husband commented how good the sauce was – he soaked it up with his bread. I served this with French fries made in an Air Pot, and the sauce over the fries was amazing! Thanks again for all the great recipes! Will be making the meatball Stroganoff this weekend.

  140. I made this giant meatball last night. It was absolutely delicious!!! My sister suggested I make another one for dinner tonight.?She didn’t realize we had four slices left over for tonight!!! Thanks Gina. We make many of your recipes because they are Weight Watchers friendly and the points are already figured out! We appreciate you.

  141. Wow! Looking forward to trying this. Do you think this would work in the slow cooker/crock pot please?

    1. What about finely shredded provolone or mozzarella? You could also omit it, since it’s only 3 Tbsp. You might want to add a little salt to offset the missing salt flavor from the cheese.

  142. We’ve already made it twice and it was the bomb! Tonight I’m making two meatballs for a larger party. Love the Italian twist, being an Italian food lover myself. I will also try it with ground chicken. One of your best recipes, Gina!

  143. Oh my ! I cannot wait to make this. I googled the sauce to see where I can find it and my store has it !! This looks fabulous !!

  144. I was originally in the “That’s not a meatball, it is meatloaf” department, but it looked so fun, I had to try it anyway. Wow! This is a winner. Tastes like meatball, without all the fuss. I served it with zucchini noodles and some of your marinara on the side. What a fun and delicious take on spaghetti and meatballs. Huge hit with the family, will definitely be on regular rotation at our house!
    Great job, Gina!

  145. This was SOOOOO good!!
    We are always looking for fun and yummy ways to get more protein into our diet and this was a great way to do just that!
    Thanks!!

  146. I made this last night and it turned out great AND the whole family loved it, especially my toddler. I sliced it and topped each slice with a little more marinara and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. I served some roasted veggies on the side. 

    I love the spin on a traditional meatloaf. Calling it a giant meatball made it exciting for my 2 year old. And it was so easy! This is a keeper recipe, for sure! 

  147. This was delicious! Added some onions to it as well. My family gobbled it up!  It was so yummy my picky 6 year old that likes nothing fought my husband for the last piece!

  148. Amazing, this is sheer genius, it’s on the menu this week!  Have all the ingriends already on hand.

  149. I made this tonight and it was soooooooo bomb!!! My boyfriend loves meatloaf (I’ve made him the slow cooker meatloaf from the cookbook at least twice since the book came out and he’s basically eaten the whole thing every time ) me not so much. But this was so good, we both loved it! It totally reminded me of the meatballs my Da used to make when I was a kid. Thanks so much for this one!

  150. I made this tonight and it was FANTASTIC!! My 10 year old and picky eater 3 year old ate 2 helpings!

  151. Going to try with ground bison instead as that’s what I have on hand. I LOVE all of your recipes as you make it easy to substitute. I own the Skinny Cookbook and its displayed in my kitchen! Thank you!!!

  152. Avatar photo
    Robin Lemons

    I tried with dry stuffing mix (like Prepperidge Farm)  in place of breadcrumbs.  Really brings out turkey flavor! 

  153. I’m making this right now as I needed something quick and easy when I was meal planning this afternoon.  It smells so good! My kids think the giant meatball is hilarious Andre are excited to try it!

  154. What changes would you recommend for making it as smaller meatballs instead of one large one? Thanks!

  155. Avatar photo
    Christine Kohler

    What can I do to replace breadcrumbs? I am a Gastric Sleeve Patient and am trying to omit breads.

    1. Can you have rolled oats? They make a good substitute for breadcrumbs in meatballs or meatloaf. I’ve also heard that using ground almonds or pecans can work, but I haven’t tried it myself.

    2. I am also a gastric sleeve patient…when you divide up the 1/3 c. bread crumbs between 4 servings, it’s a pretty insignificant amount…and I was not able to eat a full serving anyway. I just went with the bread crumbs and called it good.

  156. So fun for everyone and yummy! Just made it and I love that it takes the extra time/work out of making tons of little meatballs out. ???? Thanks for taking the time to come up with all of these healthy, easy and creative dishes!! 

  157. Wouldn’t extra lean ground beef be same caloric amount? Just wanting to make sure as I can’t make myself enjoy ground turkey. lol

    1. My husband is not a fan of turkey burger and I will use 1/2 lb. lean ground beef and 1/2 lb ground turkey. Not sure what it does to points but works for us.

  158. That looks awesome and I will definitely try it soon. But for some reason I think its a little weird. A big lump of turkey – LOL. I’m sure it will taste awesome like all your other recipes…..

  159. Sounds good, but I think if this is 4 servings I would rather make 4 large “meatballs” rather than 1 HUGE one – that makes it seem much more like meatloaf. I don’t comment often… but your recipes have helped me to lose those pounds I’ve been trying for years to take off! I’ve lost over 30 pounds this year… and shooting for another 30 or so :o) Best part – hubby doesn’t even realize he is eating healthy.. he loves all the recipe too… makes it SO much easier for me! Thank you so very much for sharing!!

    1. Cherie, thank you for sharing that with me! Great job! Shhhh..I won’t tell him if you don’t LOL. Keep up the great work!

  160. Would using 94% lean ground turkey change the cooking time (it’s what I have at home)?
    Also, would Parmesan cheese be an acceptable substitute for the pecorino Romano? Again, it’s what I have at home…
    And 1 tsp if using dried parsley?
    Thanks!

  161. I have some of your no point tomato sauce in my freezer. Going to use that. I like the ease of not having to craft meatballs. And my husband will like the leftovers in a meatloaf sandwich. Win-win!

    1. That’s a great idea Cyndy! Sliced meatball/loaf sandwiches or sliders for leftovers! Can’t wait to try this recipe!

  162. Sounds delicious! I’m curious what I could use in place of breadcrumbs to make it gluten free?  Once I figure that out (new to gluten free lifestyle for my husband), then I’m good to go!  Thanks for the delicious recipes!!

  163. Made this tonight and it was outstanding – only change I made was to add some oregano.  This is an easy weeknight meal and a big hit with all – this one will be in the rotation!

  164. Is there more than a quarter cup of cheese used for the picture? It looks so cheesy and a quarter cup is not a lot! Lol:)

    Can’t wait to make it!

    1. I use ground chicken every time I’ve made this and it’s AMAZING! It’s like a different take on chicken parm! 

  165. This not only looks delicious, but it will make my kids crack up, which of course will make them eat it! Great idea, can’t wait to try it! 

  166. This looks delicious and super fun. I am going to make it Saturday with my son who is 4.5. He will love helping make it! I plan on freezing the leftovers for another meal,

    Thank you, Gina!

  167. Avatar photo
    Sarah Jane Jennings

    Can’t wait to make this!!! I bet it would go great with your whipped cauliflower from your new cookbook!!!! Definitely going on my menu????

    1. You can absolutely freeze meatloaf. Then after thawing, put the oven on the lowest setting and let it rewarm through if you don’t like microwaving. This size I would say 30-40 minutes. Enough to warm it but not enough to rebake. I’ve done this with meatloaf several times. Thanks for the great recipe ideas! My wife and I love your site!

  168. Avatar photo
    Jasmine Wahlberg

    I’m one of those people who always hated meatloaf as a kid, but I must admit, this recipe made me realize two things — one, how similar meatballs are to meatloaf, and two, how much I think I want to try putting this in my life (and my mouth) now. It looks delicious.

    I must also admit I’m tickled pink to see you using Delallo products, which I’ve noticed in a few other recipes as well. I live very near the original store and I ADORE it. It’s such a welcoming place, stacked to the ceiling with so much delicious bread, cheese, meat, pasta, sauces…oh, and the bakery counter…I have troubles with that bakery counter (mainly of the “try to walk away without buying all of it” variety).

    I’ve never taken the opportunity to comment on your blog before, but today seemed like the time. Thank you for all the wonderful recipes that are working quite well in my kitchen these days.

    1. Very similar, I wasn’t sure what to call this 🙂 I love Delallo, I have been to their store a few times and everything is delicious! I am so glad you commented and agree.

  169. Oh my gosh, I can’t wait to try this! My 12-year-old loves meatballs and will get the biggest kick out of seeing this come out of the oven. Thanks for your creativity!

  170. So really this is just basically turkey meatloaf parm. Not that there’s anything wrong with that!