-
1
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
-
2
For the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, basil, parsley, milk, ketchup if using, tomato paste, salt, pepper, eggs, garlic and onions.
-
3
Using a wooden spoon, stir to blend.
-
4
Add the ground turkey and sausage meat.
-
5
Using fingers, gently mix all the ingredients until thoroughly combined.
-
6
Using a 1-ounce cookie scoop or a small ice cream scoop, form the meat mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls (22 to 24 meatballs).
-
7
Place the meatballs on a heavy nonstick baking sheet, spacing apart.
-
8
Drizzle with olive oil and bake until cooked through, 15 minutes.
-
9
For the tomato sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet with 2-inch-high sides over medium-high heat.
-
10
Add the garlic, onions, salt and pepper.
-
11
Cook for 5 to 6 minutes.
-
12
Add 1/2 cup of the basil, the fennel, oregano and crushed tomatoes.
-
13
Bring to a simmer.
-
14
Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally, 15 to 20 minutes.
-
15
Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup basil.
-
16
Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired.
-
17
Add the meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer until the meatballs are heated through, about 10 minutes.
-
18
Thin the sauce with chicken stock, 1/4 cup at a time, if needed.
-
19
Serve with grated Parmesan alongside.
