Description

A delicious and hearty Caprese Turkey Meatball Pasta Skillet combining tender turkey meatballs, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella pearls over penne pasta, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Pasta

1 lb. penne pasta

Skillet Sauce and Meatballs

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
1 (22 oz.) bag Rosina Turkey Meatballs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Toppings and Garnishes

1 cup mozzarella pearls, drained
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Balsamic glaze, for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Skillet Base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, taking care not to brown it.
Add Tomatoes and Turkey Meatballs: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and break down. Lower the heat to medium-low, then stir in the turkey meatballs. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until a thick sauce forms and the meatballs are fully cooked through, about 30 to 35 minutes.
Combine with Pasta and Basil: Stir the chopped fresh basil into the skillet, then add the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything gently to combine and coat the pasta evenly in the tomato and meatball sauce.
Add Mozzarella Pearls: Scatter the mozzarella pearls on top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and cook briefly until the cheese just begins to melt, approximately 1 to 2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes and additional fresh basil over the dish. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a tangy, sweet finish.

Notes

Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to hold its shape in the skillet.
You can substitute fresh mozzarella balls if mozzarella pearls are unavailable, but drain well to avoid excess moisture.
Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
For a gluten-free option, replace penne pasta with gluten-free pasta.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.