Get ready to fall in love with one of the most crave-worthy, crowd-pleasing dishes out there: Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs. These little gems are tender, juicy, and smothered in a sticky, savory-sweet glaze that turns every bite into a flavor-packed celebration. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main course, they promise a burst of bright, aromatic ingredients that showcase how something so simple can truly steal the spotlight at any dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs is handpicked for maximum impact, creating a perfect balance of flavor and freshness. Nothing is unnecessary here—every bite is packed with a punch of taste, great texture, or vibrant color.
- Ground turkey: Provides a lean, juicy base for tender meatballs, offering a lighter alternative to traditional red meat.
- Breadcrumbs: Binds the mixture and helps keep each meatball moist and airy.
- Egg: Holds everything together so your meatballs keep their shape from bowl to plate.
- Green onions: Add a layer of freshness and a pop of color.
- Garlic: Minced for a sharp, aromatic kick that elevates the savory notes.
- Fresh ginger: Infuses every meatball with a gentle warmth and unmistakable Asian flavor.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Used in both the meatballs and the glaze for that signature umami essence.
- Sesame oil: Just a splash gives you depth and a delicious, toasty undertone.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat to round out the flavors.
- Honey (for glaze): Brings sweetness, making the glaze perfectly sticky and shiny.
- Rice vinegar (for glaze): Introduces a gentle tang that balances out rich, savory notes.
- Hoisin sauce (for glaze): Offers a glossy finish and layers of sweet, salty complexity.
- Cornstarch + water (for glaze): Thickens the glaze, so it wonderfully clings to every meatball.
How to Make Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready when your meatballs are. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a quick grease—this simple prep prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to gently mix everything together just until combined; over-mixing can make the meatballs dense, so stop as soon as it looks evenly mixed.
Step 3: Roll Into Meatballs
Scoop out small portions (about 1 inch in diameter) and roll them gently between your palms to form meatballs. Place each on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between them so they cook evenly and get that beautiful all-around golden color.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and starting to turn golden. The kitchen will begin to fill with incredible aromas right about now—it’s hard not to sneak a taste!
Step 5: Make the Glaze
While the meatballs are baking, grab a small saucepan and whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil over medium heat. Bring it gently to a simmer, then whisk in the cornstarch-water mixture. Stir constantly; in 2–3 minutes, the glaze thickens into a glossy, sticky coating worthy of any takeout favorite.
Step 6: Toss and Coat
As soon as the meatballs are out of the oven, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the glaze all over. Toss gently (or use a spoon) to make sure each meatball gets a generous lacquer of that addictive sauce. This is where the Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs truly shine.
How to Serve Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs
Garnishes
A little garnish goes a long way—try scattering extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top for a lively crunch and fresh color. Even a drizzle of extra glaze or some thinly sliced red chili can draw out the dish’s best flavors and make your platter pop.
Side Dishes
These Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs are right at home atop fluffy steamed rice or a bed of simple noodles. Want to keep things lighter? Serve them alongside a crisp Asian slaw or sautéed green veggies to soak up that irresistible glaze. Don’t forget extra sauce on the side for dipping!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, skewer the meatballs with toothpicks for easy, elegant appetizers. For a fun twist, tuck them into lettuce cups with shredded carrots and cucumber, or pile them into soft buns, sliders, or even grain bowls for a lunch that’ll win you serious points.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store them in an airtight container to lock in moisture and flavor, and you’ll be set for simple, satisfying meals all week.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze perfectly before or after baking. Place the uncooked or cooked meatballs on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They make a fantastic last-minute meal—just thaw, glaze, and enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the meatballs gently in the oven at 350°F or in a covered skillet over low heat. A splash of water or extra glaze will help restore their juiciness and shine. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works beautifully in this recipe and delivers similarly moist, tender meatballs. Just be sure it’s not too lean, or you may want to add an extra splash of sesame oil to keep them juicy.
How spicy are these Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs?
The meatballs themselves are mild and family-friendly, with the option to add extra spice through garnishes like sliced chili or a dash of chili flakes in the glaze. You can easily adjust the heat to fit your crowd.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out regular breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free brand, and use a gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and hoisin sauce. Your Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs will be every bit as delicious.
What’s the best way to meal prep this recipe?
Roll the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to bake. In a busy week, bake and glaze the meatballs in advance, then simply reheat and serve for a quick dinner or snack.
Can I double or triple this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a hit at parties and potlucks. Double the ingredients and bake in batches; the glaze can easily be multiplied as well. Just be prepared for everyone to ask for the recipe!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try these Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs—they’re as fun to make as they are to eat, and they truly become everyone’s new favorite after just one bite. Whether they’re starring in a weeknight dinner, showing off as party appetizers, or fueling your meal prep sessions, you’ll return to this recipe again and again for its bold flavors and simple soul-satisfying goodness.
Print
Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy dish that can be served as a main course or appetizer. The juicy turkey meatballs are coated in a sweet and savory glaze, making them a crowd-pleasing favorite at any gathering.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the glaze:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs: Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and golden.
- Make the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook until the glaze thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
- Glaze the meatballs: Toss the cooked meatballs in the glaze until well coated. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- These meatballs are great over rice or noodles, or served as an appetizer with toothpicks.
- You can freeze the meatballs before or after baking for easy prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course or Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 meatballs
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
