Zesty Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Spinach Rigatoni

There’s something so satisfying about a dish that brings together hearty, flavorful meatballs with a comforting bowl of pasta. These Zesty Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Spinach Rigatoni are exactly that—a delicious balance of creamy, zesty, and savory flavors. Juicy turkey meatballs infused with lemon zest, Parmesan, and ricotta are paired with garlicky, sautéed spinach and rigatoni for a meal that’s both wholesome and indulgent.

This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prep for the week, or even a gathering with friends. Best of all, it comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light yet satisfying – The turkey meatballs are tender and flavorful without feeling too heavy.
• Quick & easy – 35 minutes from start to finish!
• Packed with flavor – Lemon zest, Parmesan, and garlic take these meatballs to the next level.
• Nutritious – Spinach adds a boost of vitamins, and turkey is a great lean protein choice.
• Perfect for meal prep – Make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

What Does This Dish Taste Like?

These turkey & ricotta meatballs are incredibly moist, tender, and packed with flavor. The ricotta gives them a light, almost creamy texture, while the lemon zest and garlic add brightness. The garlic spinach rigatoni is simple but incredibly flavorful—earthy, garlicky, and just the right amount of spice from crushed red pepper flakes. When combined, you get a well-balanced dish with a little zest, a little heat, and a whole lot of deliciousness!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the Garlic Spinach Rigatoni:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Essential Tools for This Recipe

• Large mixing bowl – For combining the meatball ingredients.
• Baking sheet – To bake the meatballs evenly.
• Large skillet – For sautéing the garlic spinach and tossing with rigatoni.
• Pasta pot – To cook the rigatoni to perfection.
• Microplane/Zester – For fresh lemon zest, which adds a bright, fresh kick!

How to Make Zesty Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Spinach Rigatoni

Step 1: Prep & Mix the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Form & Bake the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil to help them brown beautifully.

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).

Step 3: Cook the Rigatoni

While the meatballs are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Spinach

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the cooked rigatoni and toss everything together.

Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 5: Assemble & Serve

Serve the garlic spinach rigatoni on a plate, topped with the zesty turkey & ricotta meatballs. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy!

What to Serve with This Dish

This dish is already a complete meal, but if you want to elevate your dinner, try pairing it with:

• A fresh side salad – A simple arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic bread – Because who can say no to more garlic?
• A crisp white wine – A Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemony, garlicky flavors beautifully.

Tips for the Best Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture – This keeps them tender and light.
Use fresh lemon zest – It makes a huge difference in flavor!
Bake, don’t fry – Baking keeps the meatballs juicy and evenly cooked without extra oil.
Save some pasta water – A splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen up the rigatoni if needed.

How to Store & Reheat

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Meatballs can be frozen (before or after cooking) for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe.

What can I use instead of ricotta?

Cottage cheese or mascarpone are great substitutes for ricotta in the meatballs.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and swap the rigatoni for your favorite GF pasta.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Final Thoughts

This Zesty Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Spinach Rigatoni is a dish that’s bursting with flavor, yet light enough to enjoy any night of the week. Whether you’re meal prepping or making dinner for the family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a review below or share a photo on Pinterest—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations.

Looking for more delicious recipes? Check these out:

• Creamy Ricotta Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Balsamic Cranberry Glaze
• Feta Cranberry Fusilli Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Feta Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

📌 Follow me on Pinterest for more recipe ideas! → Pinterest

Happy cooking! 🍽️💛

Print