Ready in under 30 minutes, Instant Pot Spicy Turkey Meatballs are perfect for any family dinner! Moist, spicy meatballs great with spaghetti.
Ever had one of those days where 7 PM rolls around and dinner is still a question mark? You’re not alone! That’s exactly when my Instant Pot becomes my knight in shining armor. If you’re unfamiliar, this kitchen gadget is a game changer for whipping up quick meals without sacrificing flavor. One of my favorite recipes to tackle on those hectic evenings? Spicy Turkey Meatballs. Not only are they healthier than their traditional counterparts, but they also come together in a flash.
The first time I tried my hand at these meatballs, they were a hit! Sure, they were a tad more “fall-apart” than intended, but I’ve tweaked the recipe since then (hello, extra egg!). The result? Perfectly juicy meatballs that are a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed. Paired with spaghetti and a sprinkle of parmesan, this dish is ready to win over any dinner table.
Ingredients Needed
- Ground turkey
- Finely chopped onions
- Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
- Minced garlic
- Red chili flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Eggs
- Pasta sauce
- Spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish
Recipe Overview
*Find the full instructions for this recipe in the recipe card below*
- Prep the Instant Pot: Turn on your Instant Pot to start heating up.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, onions, crushed crackers, garlic, red chili flakes, salt, pepper, and eggs.
- Form Meatballs: Using a scoop. I like using a portion scoop size D20 for this. Form the mixture into balls and place them into the Instant Pot covered with half of the pasta sauce.
- Cook: Add the rest of the sauce over the meatballs and set your Instant Pot to pressure cook for 5 minutes.
- Pasta Time: While the meatballs cook, prepare your pasta.
- Release and Serve: Allow a 10-minute natural release in the Instant Pot before serving the meatballs over pasta with a garnish of parmesan and basil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs without an Instant Pot? Absolutely! Although using an Instant Pot speeds up the process, you can bake these in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
What if my meatballs are still falling apart? If you find the meatballs a bit crumbly, consider adding a bit more breadcrumb or another egg for binding. Ensuring the mixture is well combined before cooking can also help maintain their shape.
Are these meatballs freezer friendly? Yes, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Simply cool them completely, place them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze. They’ll be ready to reheat for a quick meal anytime.
So, why not give this recipe a spin? It might just make your “what’s for dinner?” dilemma a deliciously easy decision. And remember, they’re fall-apart good!
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Is spicy food not your scene? We also love these Sweet and Sour Meatballs. It’s a simple, sweet and savory dish everyone will enjoy.
Instant Pot Meatballs Recipe Card
Easy Instant Pot Spicy Turkey Meatballs {with spaghetti}
Have dinner ready in under 30 with these Easy Instant Pot Spicy Turkey Meatballs. They are juicy and come with a spicy kick that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1 1b ground turkey, lean preferred
- 1 small-medium onion, small dice
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers or bread crumbs
- 3 eggs
- red chili flakes, 1/4-1/2 teaspoon depending on your preferred level of spiciness
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 spaghetti sauce, whatever kind you prefer
- 1 lb pasta, cooked
Instructions
- Turn Instant Pot on to begin warming. Start water boiling for pasta.
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, onion, crackers, eggs, chili flakes, salt, and pepper together. Form into balls about 2 tablespoons big (I use a D20 scoop)
- Pour half the jar of spaghetti sauce in the Instant Pot. Place meatballs into the sauce. Pour remaining sauce over meatballs.
- Start cooking pasta once meatballs have begun cooking.
- Cook meatballs on high pressure for 5 minutes. Use the 10-minute natural release method.
- Serve over pasta. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and basil.
Notes
Do not stir the meatballs after they have cooked or they will break apart and you'll be left with meat sauce.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 364Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 162mgSodium: 582mgCarbohydrates: 49gFiber: 3gSugar: 4gProtein: 19g
Originally Published: 02/14/2017 Updated: 04/18/2024
Ooh, this recipe would be so easy to make gluten free by subbing out the cracker/bread crumbs. The flavor combo sounds so yummy!
Great idea, Celeste! You’ll have to let me know how it is if you try it gluten-free. 🙂