Turkey meatballs offer a delicious and healthier twist on a classic dish.
They are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect option for those looking for a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs.
With lean ground turkey, a variety of seasonings, and simple ingredients, these meatballs are versatile and easy to prepare.
Whether you’re serving them with pasta, on a sandwich, or as an appetizer, turkey meatballs can be enjoyed in so many ways.
They are also an excellent choice for meal prep, as they store well and can be reheated easily, saving you time on busy days.
Ingredients Needed
To make these turkey meatballs, you’ll need a handful of basic ingredients, most of which are likely already in your kitchen.
- 1 lb ground turkey – Choose lean turkey for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Traditional breadcrumbs work best, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a variation.
- 1 large egg – This helps bind the meatball mixture together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds flavor and depth to the meatballs.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – For a fresh, herbal note.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds richness and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – For an earthy flavor that complements the turkey.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
- Olive oil – For frying the meatballs (if pan-frying).
You can also customize your turkey meatballs by adding other ingredients like grated carrots, zucchini, or spices such as chili flakes for a bit of heat.
How to Make Turkey Meatballs
Making turkey meatballs is a simple, straightforward process that involves just a few steps.
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by placing the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and oregano into a large mixing bowl.
Add salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix the ingredients together using your hands or a spoon.
Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. The mixture should be moist but still hold together well.
Shape the Meatballs
Once your mixture is ready, use your hands to form small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Place them on a plate or tray, ensuring they don’t touch each other. If you’re planning to freeze them for later use, this is the time to do it.
Cook the Meatballs
You have a couple of cooking options for these turkey meatballs: pan-fry or bake.
Pan-frying: Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to cook the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy
Once your turkey meatballs are cooked, you can serve them in a variety of ways. For a traditional dish, serve them with pasta and marinara sauce.
You can also make a turkey meatball sub with some toasted bread and melted cheese, or enjoy them as an appetizer with dipping sauce.
If you have leftovers, they are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later.
Pro Tips for Perfect Turkey Meatballs
To ensure your turkey meatballs come out juicy, tender, and flavorful every time, follow these expert tips:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix the meatball mixture just enough to incorporate everything. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough meatballs.
- Chill Before Cooking: After shaping the meatballs, refrigerate them for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart during cooking.
- Use Lean Ground Turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for the best balance of flavor and texture. Ground turkey breast can be a bit dry, so combining it with thigh meat, if available, provides extra moisture.
- Moisture is Key: Add moisture-enhancing ingredients like breadcrumbs and an egg. These help the turkey meatballs stay juicy and tender.
- Don’t Skip the Seasonings: Ground turkey can be bland, so be sure to season generously. Fresh herbs, garlic, and cheese all contribute to the overall flavor.
- Test One First: If you’re unsure about the seasoning, cook a small meatball first. Taste it, then adjust the seasonings if needed before cooking the rest.
How to Store Turkey Meatballs
Turkey meatballs are great for meal prep and can be stored for later use. Here’s how to properly store them:
- Refrigerating: Allow the cooked meatballs to cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. You can store frozen meatballs for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For reheating, simply microwave the meatballs or heat them in a saucepan with a little sauce for extra flavor. If reheating frozen meatballs, thaw them overnight in the fridge or heat directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition Information
Here is a general nutrition breakdown for one serving (about 4-5 meatballs) of turkey meatballs:
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
The nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients you use (e.g., type of breadcrumbs, cheese) and cooking method (pan-fried or baked).
Conclusion
Turkey meatballs are an easy, flavorful, and healthier option for a variety of meals.
Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping them for the week ahead, they are sure to satisfy your hunger and taste buds.
With simple ingredients, plenty of room for customization, and the option to serve them in many different ways, turkey meatballs make a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire.
So go ahead, try this recipe today, and enjoy a healthier, delicious take on a classic favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute for turkey. It has a similar texture and flavor, but may be slightly leaner than turkey.
How do I prevent turkey meatballs from being dry?
To keep your meatballs moist, use a combination of breadcrumbs and egg, and avoid overcooking them.
Adding ingredients like grated vegetables (carrots or zucchini) can also boost moisture.
Can I freeze turkey meatballs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze raw turkey meatballs. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
You can cook them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best way to serve turkey meatballs?
Turkey meatballs are versatile and can be served with pasta and marinara sauce, in a sub roll with cheese, or as an appetizer with dipping sauce.
They are also great over a bed of salad or with roasted vegetables.
How long do turkey meatballs last in the fridge?
Cooked turkey meatballs will last for 3-4 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.
Turkey Meatballs
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 baking sheet (or large skillet if pan-frying)
- 1 teaspoon (measuring spoon for spices)
- 1 tablespoon (measuring spoon for olive oil)
- 1 spatula or tongs (for turning meatballs)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture.
Shape the Meatballs:
- Using your hands, shape the turkey mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs. Place them on a plate or baking tray, ensuring they do not touch each other.
Cook the Meatballs:
- Option 1: Baking – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Option 2: Pan-frying – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (4-5 minutes per side), then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them with your favorite sauce or on a bed of pasta. They can also be enjoyed in a sandwich or as an appetizer.
Notes
- For a Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Freezing Tips: Freeze uncooked meatballs for later use. Lay them on a baking sheet, freeze for 1-2 hours, and then transfer to a freezer bag. You can cook them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- For Extra Flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning. You can also add grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrition.
- To Prevent Dry Meatballs: Ensure you don’t overcook the meatballs. Ground turkey is lean, so it’s easy to dry it out if left in the pan too long.
