Turkey Meatballs
These turkey meatballs are a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, offering a leaner source of protein without compromising on flavor. Made with simple ingredients like ground turkey, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, they are easy to prepare and perfect for a variety of meals. Whether served with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste.Ideal for meal prep, turkey meatballs are both delicious and nutritious.Nutrition Facts (per serving, 1 meatball):Calories: 230 kcal, Protein: 24g, Carbohydrates: 12g, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Cholesterol: 70mg, Sodium: 370mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 1g.Estimated based on one serving (assuming 5 servings per batch)
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.