Go Back
Homemade Pesto Meatball Melts. photo

Pesto Meatball Melts.

You won't believe how delicious these Pesto Meatball Melts are! Juicy meatballs, gooey cheese, and vibrant pesto come together in every bite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey (94% lean)
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • ¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  • ¾ cup pesto homemade or prepared
  • ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • to taste Kosher salt and pepper
  • 1 baguette about 10 to 12 inches long
  • ¾ cup pesto or more if you’re a pesto fanatic
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
  • to taste Additional parmesan cheese for topping
  • to taste Fresh basil for topping

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Knife
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, lightly beaten egg, seasoned breadcrumbs, ¾ cup of pesto, and finely grated parmesan cheese. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). With wet hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. While the meatballs are baking, slice the baguette lengthwise to create a perfect boat for your meatballs!
  5. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven. Spread ¾ cup of pesto inside the sliced baguette, layer in the meatballs, and top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese and additional parmesan.
  6. Return the assembled melts to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize with different cheeses or herbs.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • For extra flavor, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.