Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe

Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together tender turkey meatballs and a rich, flavorful gravy—all cooked effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering comfort and warmth with every bite. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors while savoring the convenience of a one-pot meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The savory turkey meatballs paired with rich gravy create an irresistible dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: Using ground turkey makes this meal lighter without sacrificing flavor, and it pairs well with various sides.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners.
• One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in the Instant Pot, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To make Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking utensil

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-functional appliance allows for quick cooking and helps to lock in flavors.
• Mixing Bowl: A good mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients thoroughly when making meatballs.
• Whisk: A whisk helps create a smooth gravy by preventing lumps when mixing in flour and broth.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

For the Gravy

• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream

Pin

How to Make Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add olive oil to the pot. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides for about 5 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy Base

In the same pot, add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Combine and Pressure Cook

Once the broth is simmering, gently add the browned meatballs back into the pot. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Release the Pressure

After cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of pressure. Once the pin drops, open the lid.

Step 6: Finish the Gravy

Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside. Stir in heavy cream into the gravy and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 7: Serve

Return meatballs to pot, stirring to coat them with gravy. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe

Serving turkey meatballs and gravy can elevate your dining experience. The rich flavors of the gravy combined with tender meatballs make for a delightful meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dish.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the meatballs and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty combination. The smooth texture of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.

With Egg Noodles

• Toss the meatballs and gravy with egg noodles for a comforting, pasta-inspired dish. This option is quick to prepare and fills you up nicely.

On Rice

• Spoon turkey meatballs and gravy over fluffy white or brown rice. The rice absorbs the delicious gravy, making every bite flavorful.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Create a delicious meatball sub by placing the turkey meatballs in a toasted sandwich roll. Add some cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for added flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the rich gravy. This simple addition makes for a wonderful side that complements the meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• For an extra burst of flavor, garnish your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This not only looks appealing but adds freshness to every bite.

How to Perfect Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe

To make sure your turkey meatballs turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips:

• Use Lean Ground Turkey: Opting for lean ground turkey keeps your meatballs juicy without excess fat. This helps maintain flavor while keeping them healthier.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients for the meatballs, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs instead of tender ones.
• Brown Evenly: Make sure to brown the meatballs on all sides during the sauté step. This enhances their flavor and gives them an appealing color.
• Adjust Consistency: If the gravy is too thick after adding cream, add more broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Add Flavor Variations: Feel free to include additional spices or herbs in your turkey mixture. Garlic powder or onion powder can enhance taste significantly.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the meatballs to rest in the gravy for a few minutes before serving. This helps them absorb more flavor from the sauce.

Pin

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your turkey meatballs and gravy can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A perfect companion that can be used to soak up extra gravy while adding a delightful garlic flavor.
2. Steamed Vegetables
   Broccoli, green beans, or carrots are nutritious choices that balance out this hearty dish beautifully.
3. Cauliflower Rice
   A lighter alternative that provides a low-carb option while still being able to soak up all that delicious gravy.
4. Coleslaw
   A refreshing crunch that offers contrast in texture and flavor, making it an ideal side for comfort food meals.
5. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs complement the rich flavors of turkey meatballs wonderfully.
6. Quinoa Salad
   A nutritious grain salad can add freshness and healthy benefits that round out this satisfying dinner option.
7. Side Salad
   A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly can bring brightness to your plate alongside rich meatballs and creamy gravy.
8. Polenta
   Creamy polenta serves as a unique base that adds richness while pairing well with savory sauces like the one from this recipe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using lean turkey: Lean ground turkey may lead to dry meatballs. Opt for a blend with some fat for tenderness.
• Not browning enough: Skipping the browning step can result in less flavor. Always sear the meatballs to enhance their taste.
• Ignoring the roux: Failing to whisk the flour properly can create lumps in your gravy. Take your time when adding broth to ensure a smooth texture.
• Cooking too long: Overcooking can make meatballs tough. Stick to the recommended pressure cooking time for perfect results.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your gravy before serving. You might want to add more salt or seasoning according to your preference.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs and gravy in a baking dish covered with foil; heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring gently until warmed through.

Pin

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?

Yes, you can use ground chicken or lean beef if preferred. Just adjust cooking times if necessary.

How do I store leftover Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

What sides go well with Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe?

Serve these meatballs with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. A side salad also complements this dish nicely.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the meatballs and gravy separately and combine them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Turkey Meatballs & Gravy Instant Pot Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different herbs or spices based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try for a delightful family meal that everyone will enjoy!