If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavor-packed meal that’s both easy and crowd-pleasing, these Turkey Meatballs will quickly win your heart. Featuring lean ground turkey as the star with a handful of classic Italian flavors and a golden, oven-baked finish, this recipe is a weeknight hero or a standby for lively gatherings. The gentle combination of Parmesan, parsley, and a hint of garlic offers comfort and freshness in every tender bite. Whether you serve them over pasta, tuck them into a toasty roll, or just set them out with toothpicks and marinara for snacking, these Turkey Meatballs are destined to become one of your most-requested dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these Turkey Meatballs plays a key role in making them juicy and delicious, while keeping the prep refreshingly simple. From a good handful of fresh parsley to a shower of grated Parmesan, each addition brightens or deepens flavor, adds texture, or brings everything together. Here’s your lineup:
- Ground turkey: Lean and mild, turkey lets flavors shine and keeps the meatballs lighter than their beefy cousins.
- Breadcrumbs: These help the meatballs hold their shape and offer a tender, cohesive bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty pop and melts into the meatballs for richness.
- Finely chopped onion: Provides moisture and a touch of sweetness in every mouthful.
- Minced garlic: Essential for that deep, comforting aroma and classic Italian flair.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder so your meatballs won’t fall apart on the pan or in the sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the turkey mixture and gives the meatballs a garden-fresh lift.
- Dried oregano: Earthy and aromatic, it brings a warm Mediterranean note to every bite.
- Salt: Draws out overall flavor and keeps the meatballs from tasting bland.
- Black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and rounds out the herbal notes.
- Olive oil: Brushed on top before baking for a golden finish and a subtle fruitiness.
- Marinara sauce (optional): Simmering the Turkey Meatballs in sauce infuses them with extra savory goodness.
How to Make Turkey Meatballs
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready to go the moment your Turkey Meatballs are shaped. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or lightly grease it with oil, to keep the meatballs from sticking and make cleanup a dream.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper. The trick here is to mix everything just until combined—overmixing can turn the meatballs tough, while a gentle hand ensures each one stays juicy and tender. It’s absolutely okay (in fact, best!) if the mixture looks slightly rustic.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Next, use your hands to form the turkey mixture into 1½-inch balls—about the size of a golf ball. Aim for consistent sizing so they bake evenly. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each to help them brown all around.
Step 4: Brush with Olive Oil
Take a moment to brush the tops of the meatballs with olive oil. This helps them develop a gorgeous golden hue in the oven, plus a touch of that classic roasted flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake the Turkey Meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for firm, lightly browned meatballs that are cooked all the way through. For extra classic flavor (and if you love saucy meatballs), transfer them to a simmering pot of marinara sauce for about five minutes before serving. This last step infuses every meatball with even more savory goodness.
How to Serve Turkey Meatballs
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle your Turkey Meatballs with extra chopped parsley or a flurry of freshly grated Parmesan. Even a few twists of black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil can add wonderful aroma and visual appeal, making every plate look as irresistible as it tastes.
Side Dishes
These meatballs are famously versatile. Serve them over twirls of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic combo that delights everyone. You can also set them alongside garlicky sautéed greens, cozy mashed potatoes, or a simple garden salad for a lighter touch. If you love a little crunch, crusty garlic bread is a sensational partner, ready to soak up extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Turkey Meatballs don’t just belong on a dinner plate. Tuck a few into a toasted sub roll with sauce and cheese for a spectacular sandwich, or skewer them with toothpicks for an easy party appetizer. Little ones (and, honestly, adults) also love them as bite-sized protein toppers over zoodles or tucked into lunch bowls with rice or quinoa and roasted veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Turkey Meatballs keep wonderfully in the fridge. Simply let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll hold up for up to four days—perfect for easy lunches or a speedy dinner repeat.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Turkey Meatballs freeze like a dream. Arrange cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to three months and can be thawed in the fridge whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover Turkey Meatballs gently in a saucepan with a bit of marinara sauce over medium-low heat until hot throughout. If you’re in a hurry, a minute or two in the microwave (covered, to keep them moist) works great. Straight from the freezer, add a splash of water or broth and use a covered pan to help them heat evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works beautifully here, though your meatballs will be even lighter in flavor. Just keep an eye out for moisture—sometimes chicken can be a bit leaner, so if the mixture feels dry, add a splash of milk or extra onion.
Are these Turkey Meatballs gluten free?
As written, the recipe includes regular breadcrumbs, but it’s a breeze to swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs or even rolled oats for a gluten-free option. Just be sure to check your Parmesan and other seasonings for hidden gluten if needed.
Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix up the Turkey Meatball mixture and shape them up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This can make party prep or weeknight dinners extra efficient.
How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the pan?
Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or giving it a good grease with olive oil works wonders. It ensures the Turkey Meatballs lift off easily and saves scrubbing later. If you like, you can even place them on a wire rack set over the sheet for extra browning all around.
Can I make mini meatballs for appetizers?
Definitely! Simply roll the mixture into smaller balls, about one inch or less across. You’ll want to reduce the baking time slightly, so check for doneness at around 10-12 minutes—perfect for popping onto toothpicks for your next party spread.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried homemade Turkey Meatballs yet, you’re in for such a treat! This recipe delivers big, satisfying flavor with a healthy twist and is endlessly adaptable for any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to bring these to your table and make them your own new favorite!
Print
Turkey Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These succulent turkey meatballs are a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs. Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, they are versatile and can be served with pasta, in a sub roll, or even as appetizers. A family-friendly favorite that’s easy to make!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Serving (optional):
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and browned.
- Serve: Optionally, simmer the meatballs in marinara sauce for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, in a sub roll, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 meatballs
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
