Turkey Meatballs: A Healthier Twist on a Classic Favorite

Turkey meatballs are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs, offering a leaner source of protein without sacrificing flavor. These meatballs are perfectly seasoned and have a soft, tender texture that pairs well with a variety of dishes, from pasta to sandwiches. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

These Turkey Meatballs are ideal for meal prepping, freezing, or serving at dinner gatherings. Whether you’re serving them with marinara sauce, over spaghetti, or in a hearty sub sandwich, these meatballs are a versatile option that can be enjoyed in many ways.

For more ideas on how to use turkey in your meals, check out Turkey Recipes and Healthy Meatball Recipes.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Turkey Meatballs: Healthy, Easy, and Flavorful Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (about 4-6 meatballs per serving) 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Turkey Meatballs are flavorful and lean, made with ground turkey, Italian seasoning, and a hint of garlic. They’re easy to prepare, healthy, and perfect for pairing with pasta, on a sub, or served with a side of veggies. The combination of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and spices creates a delicious texture and taste, making them a hit for any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 lb. ground turkey
• 1 large egg

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Instructions

• Preheat the Oven:
  Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

• Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
  In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.

• Add the Ground Turkey and Egg:
  Add the ground turkey and the egg to the bowl. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.

• Shape the Meatballs:
  Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure there is some space between each meatball.

• Bake the Meatballs:
  Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

• Serve:
  Serve the turkey meatballs with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta, in a sub roll with melted cheese, or on a bed of sautéed veggies.

Notes

• If you prefer a softer meatball, you can add a splash of milk to the meat mixture.
• For a more flavorful option, feel free to add minced garlic, fresh herbs like parsley, or even red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• These meatballs freeze well. Simply let them cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian, American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4-6 meatballs)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Turkey Meatballs

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir to mix the dry ingredients evenly.
3. Add the Turkey and Egg
   Add the ground turkey and the egg to the bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
4. Form the Meatballs
   Use your hands to form the meat mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should be able to make about 16-18 meatballs, depending on the size you prefer.
5. Bake the Meatballs
   Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; it should no longer be pink in the center, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve
   Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with marinara sauce, over pasta, or enjoy them on their own with a side of vegetables.

Advanced Techniques

Adding Extra Flavor

To enhance the flavor of your Turkey Meatballs, consider adding finely chopped onions, fresh garlic, or even a little chopped fresh basil to the mixture. These ingredients will boost the flavor and create a more aromatic meatball.

Moisture Retention

Ground turkey can sometimes be dry compared to beef or pork, so it’s essential to ensure the meatballs stay moist. Adding a bit of milk to the breadcrumbs before mixing them with the turkey can help keep the meatballs tender. Additionally, don’t overbake the meatballs, as this can cause them to dry out.

Using Ground Turkey Breast

If you’re using leaner ground turkey breast, you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil or another fat to the mixture to keep the meatballs juicy. Ground turkey thigh is slightly fattier and naturally keeps the meatballs moist, but ground turkey breast may require a little extra help.

Freezing Meatballs

These meatballs freeze wonderfully! After baking and cooling, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen meatballs to a zip-top bag or airtight container for long-term storage. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven or microwave.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Turkey Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning to eat them within that time frame, they’ll stay fresh and juicy, especially if stored with a bit of marinara sauce.

Freezing for Later

As mentioned, you can freeze the meatballs either before or after baking. For freezing before baking, form the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To cook, bake them directly from frozen; they may need a few extra minutes in the oven. For frozen, baked meatballs, reheat in the microwave or oven.

Maintaining Freshness

To ensure your meatballs stay fresh, avoid leaving them out at room temperature for extended periods. Always store them in an airtight container to lock in moisture and prevent them from drying out.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Option

To make these meatballs gluten-free, simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Be sure to check that the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free as well.

Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly

For a low-carb or keto version, replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. These substitutions will still provide some texture without the carbs, making them perfect for anyone following a keto diet.

Dairy-Free

If you’re dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free version. You can also try nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory flavor without the dairy.

Spicy Meatballs

For a little heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the meatball mixture. If you like a spicier sauce, pair the meatballs with a hot marinara sauce or a spicy dipping sauce.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I make these meatballs without eggs?

Yes, if you’re avoiding eggs, you can use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture as a binder. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to form a gel-like consistency. Use this in place of the egg.

Can I pan-fry the meatballs instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the meatballs in a skillet. Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches, turning them to brown all sides. This method will give the meatballs a crispy outer layer, but they may take a bit longer to cook through than baking.

How can I make meatballs ahead of time?

You can prepare and form the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’re making them to freeze, follow the freezing instructions above, then bake when you’re ready.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These Turkey Meatballs are perfect with a variety of sides. Try them with spaghetti, a side of roasted vegetables, or in a sub roll with marinara and melted mozzarella cheese. You can also serve them with a simple salad or steamed broccoli for a low-carb option.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

These Turkey Meatballs are a fantastic, healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, offering a great balance of flavor and nutrition. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or even appetizers for a party. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, as part of a sandwich, or on their own with a dipping sauce, they’re sure to be a hit at the table.

By swapping out beef for lean ground turkey and using simple, flavorful seasonings, these meatballs offer a lighter version of a classic comfort food. You can also customize them with your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables to suit your taste. Give them a try, and you’ll find that they’re as delicious as they are easy to make!