Ingredients
or the Meatballs:
- 1 lb. ground chicken or turkey (preferably dark meat for moisture)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs, if needed)
- 1 large egg (for binding)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (oil-packed for the best flavor)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated (plus extra for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup dry white wine (or substitute with extra chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons oil from sun-dried tomatoes (to infuse Tuscan flavor)
For the Finishing Touches:
- 1 package (17.5 oz.) gnocchi (regular or gluten-free)
- 3 cups packed baby spinach leaves
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (to stir in and garnish)
Optional Garnishes:
- Additional grated Parmesan
- Fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and grated Parmesan.
- Mix the ingredients gently using your hands or a spatula, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 18-20 meatballs). Set aside.
Step 2: Set Up the Slow Cooker
- In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, white wine (or extra broth), and 2 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes.
- Nestle the meatballs into the liquid, ensuring they’re arranged in a single layer and partially submerged.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Meatballs
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours (or low for 6 hours), until the meatballs are tender and cooked through.
- Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the meatballs to a foil-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Broil the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
- Place the meatballs under the broiler for 6-8 minutes, turning halfway through, until they develop a golden crust. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
- While the meatballs are broiling, add the gnocchi and remaining chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the slow cooker.
- Stir gently to combine and cover. Cook on high for 20 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
- Stir in the fresh spinach, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Return the broiled meatballs to the slow cooker, nestling them back into the sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon the gnocchi, meatballs, and sauce into serving bowls.
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil for a pop of flavor and color.
- Serve warm with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (1/6 of the recipe)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 860 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg