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Roasted meatballs on a sheet pan beside thick tikka masala sauce
TrendyTadka Editorial

Sheet Pan Meatball Tikka Masala

Fully cooked frozen plain turkey or chicken meatballs roast on a sheet pan while a fast tikka-style tomato cream sauce comes together on the stove.
Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian-American

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 bag 24 ounces fully cooked frozen plain turkey or chicken meatballs
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil divided
  • 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne optional
  • 1 can 14.5 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt plus more after tasting
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Heat the oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed sheet pan with foil or parchment. Arrange the fully cooked frozen meatballs in one layer and brush or toss with 1 teaspoon oil.
  2. Bake according to the package directions, usually 15 to 20 minutes, turning once, until browned and heated to 165°F. If the package requires a different temperature or time, follow the package.
  3. While the meatballs bake, heat the remaining oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion for 5 minutes until softened. Add ginger and garlic; cook 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in garam masala, cumin, paprika, and cayenne. Cook 20 seconds, then add crushed tomatoes and water. Simmer uncovered for 8 minutes until thickened.
  5. Lower the heat and stir in the cream and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Taste before adding more salt.
  6. Drain any liquid or excess fat from the sheet pan. Transfer the hot meatballs to the sauce and turn gently to coat for 1 to 2 minutes. Finish with cilantro.

Notes

  • Read the package before preheating; frozen meatball instructions vary.
  • Use a rimmed pan so any juices remain contained while roasting.
  • Do not assume browned color proves the center is hot; check a meatball from the middle of the pan.
  • Taste the finished combination before adding salt.