Get ready to fall in love with an appetizer that’s anything but boring: Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli. These meatballs are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor from the perfect blend of herbs, spices, and Parmesan, while the zippy aioli delivers a crave-worthy kick. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or need a savory protein snack for the week, this dish is a surefire hit—and it comes together in under 30 minutes! Trust me, once you’ve tried Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli, you’ll want them on repeat all year long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli is in its simplicity—each ingredient is easy to find yet totally vital for the mouthwatering taste and texture of the final dish. From the tender, seasoned turkey to the creamy, fiery aioli, everything works in harmony to create a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
- Ground turkey: Lean and versatile, turkey creates tender meatballs that soak up all the aromatic flavors.
- Breadcrumbs: Adds body and keeps the meatballs moist by locking in juices.
- Parmesan cheese: For savoriness and a subtle nutty depth—don’t skip this part!
- Egg: The glue that binds your meatball mix together.
- Garlic (minced): For that irresistible aroma and bold flavor.
- Chopped parsley: Brings a burst of color and a bright, fresh note to each bite.
- Onion powder: An easy, no-chop way to add subtle sweetness and complexity.
- Smoked paprika: For gentle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Salt: Heightens all the flavors in the mix.
- Black pepper: Adds warmth and a hint of heat.
- Olive oil: For perfectly browned, succulent meatballs.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy foundation for a luscious aioli.
- Sriracha or hot sauce: For that spicy punch that makes the aioli totally addictive.
- Lemon juice: Cuts through the richness with a hit of brightness.
- Garlic (for aioli, minced): Intensifies the aioli’s flavor.
- Pinch of salt (for aioli): Helps balance out the flavors in the dip.
How to Make Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli
Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gentle hands are key here—mix until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. The mixture should be moist and a little sticky, holding together without being dense.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
With clean, slightly damp hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. This size is just right for picking up with a toothpick or dunking generously into that spicy aioli. Place the meatballs on a plate or tray as you go, making sure they’re uniform for even cooking.
Step 3: Brown the Turkey Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Nestle the meatballs into the pan—give them a bit of space so they brown instead of steam. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning every few minutes, until they’re nicely golden on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). The irresistible aroma will quickly draw a crowd!
Step 4: Whip Up the Spicy Aioli
While the meatballs are finishing in the pan, it’s time to make the aioli. In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sriracha (add more or less for your preferred heat), lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Give it a taste and adjust the heat if you’re feeling bold. This creamy, spicy, tangy sauce takes your turkey meatballs to another level.
Step 5: Serve and Devour
Arrange the warm turkey meatballs on a platter and serve them alongside a bowl of the spicy aioli. Whether you’re feeding a festive crowd or meal-prepping for the week, Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli are the ultimate satisfying bite. Dig in while they’re hot!
How to Serve Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli
Garnishes
A handful of freshly chopped parsley or chives sprinkled over the turkey meatballs makes them look extra inviting. For an added touch, try a fine dusting of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon right before serving. It’s the little details that turn Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli into a dish worth sharing!
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a platter of grilled pita bread. If you want to make it more of a meal, serve Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli over rice, cauliflower rice, or even nestle them into warm sub rolls for a hearty sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Set out your meatballs on toothpicks for easy snacking at a party, or tuck them into lettuce cups for a fresh, gluten-free twist. You can even skewer a meatball, a cherry tomato, and a cube of cucumber for a playful, colorful appetizer. The spicy aioli makes a fabulous dip for fries or roasted potatoes, too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which, honestly, is rare in my house), store the cooled turkey meatballs and spicy aioli in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The meatballs will keep for up to four days, and the aioli stays fresh just as long.
Freezing
Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli are totally freezer-friendly! Once the meatballs are cooked and cooled, lay them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. Freeze for up to two months. The aioli isn’t ideal for freezing, so make it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat leftover turkey meatballs in a skillet over medium-low heat, or pop them in a 350°F oven until warmed through. You can also microwave them in short bursts, but stovetop or oven gives the best texture. Serve with a fresh batch of spicy aioli to revive all those bold flavors!
FAQs
Can I make Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs and be sure your mayonnaise is gluten-free. These simple substitutions let everyone enjoy this delicious appetizer worry-free.
How spicy is the aioli?
The heat level is completely customizable. Start with one tablespoon of sriracha or hot sauce for moderate heat, then add more if you want a bigger kick. The creamy mayo balances things out beautifully, so even spice lovers and spice-shy guests can enjoy!
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Absolutely. For a lighter option, bake the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes, until they’re cooked through and lightly browned. This method is perfect for feeding a crowd or when you want to skip the stovetop.
What can I use instead of turkey?
Ground chicken or lean ground pork both work nicely in place of turkey, each lending a different flavor profile. Just follow the same steps and cooking times for equally tasty results.
Can I make Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli ahead for a party?
You sure can! Make the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the fridge, then reheat gently right before guests arrive. Whip up the aioli at the last minute for the best flavor and freshness—it only takes a minute or two.
Final Thoughts
Once you try these Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli, you’ll see why they’re a favorite at every get-together I host. They’re quick, crowd-pleasing, and deliver big on flavor with minimal effort. Give them a go next time you want something a little different—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Turkey Meatballs and Spicy Aioli Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Juicy and flavorful turkey meatballs paired with a zesty, spicy aioli make the perfect appetizer or light meal. These meatballs are easy to make and are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spicy Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Make the Aioli: While the meatballs cook, stir together the mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, garlic, and salt in a small bowl to make the aioli.
- Serve: Serve the warm turkey meatballs with the spicy aioli for dipping.
Notes
- For a lighter option, bake the meatballs at 400°F for 15–18 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- You can adjust the heat in the aioli by using more or less sriracha.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 meatballs with 2 tablespoons aioli
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
