Introduction
Turkey meatballs are a versatile dish that can easily elevate any meal. Whether you're serving them with pasta, in a sub, or on their own, these meatballs offer a delightful alternative to traditional beef or pork options.
Packed with flavor and lean protein, turkey meatballs can be customized with various herbs and spices to suit your palate. They are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even as appetizers for gatherings.
This recipe ensures that your turkey meatballs are juicy, tender, and full of flavor, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the milk to the mixture and gently combine until all ingredients are just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet as you go.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite sauce, in a sub, or on their own.
FAQs
What can I do if my turkey meatballs are too dry?
If your meatballs turn out dry, consider adding a bit more milk or an additional egg to the mix next time.
How can I enhance the flavor of my turkey meatballs?
Incorporate additional spices or fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to boost the flavor profile.
Can I use ground turkey breast instead of ground turkey?
Yes, but be aware that turkey breast is leaner, which may result in drier meatballs. You can add more moisture with ingredients like milk.
What if I want to make smaller meatballs?
You can scale down the size of the meatballs; just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, checking for doneness at around 15-20 minutes.
How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
Ensure that your mixture has enough binding agents like breadcrumbs and eggs, and avoid overmixing.
Can I add vegetables to the turkey meatball mixture?
Absolutely! Finely chopped spinach or carrots can be added for extra nutrition and moisture.
Conclusion
Turkey meatballs are not only a healthier option but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a great addition to your weeknight meals.
With a little creativity, you can modify this recipe to suit your preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table will enjoy them.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of making these delicious turkey meatballs that are sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Card
Savory Turkey Meatballs for Any Occasion
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the milk to the mixture and gently combine until all ingredients are just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet as you go.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite sauce, in a sub, or on their own.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
