Baked Turkey Meatballs are a healthy and versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as a party appetizer. Made with lean ground turkey, herbs, and spices, these meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Baking them in the oven means they’re healthier than frying, but still full of great taste. Serve them with pasta, in a sub, or alongside a fresh salad for a wholesome meal.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The outside should be lightly browned.
- Serve: Once baked, serve the meatballs warm with your favorite marinara sauce, over pasta, or as a part of a meatball sub. They also make a great appetizer when served with a dipping sauce.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough meatballs.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Moisture: If your mixture feels too dry, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to help keep the meatballs moist.
Variations
- Italian Turkey Meatballs: Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Serve with marinara sauce and spaghetti for a classic Italian dish.
- Greek-Style Meatballs: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin and coriander, and serve the meatballs with tzatziki sauce and a Greek salad for a Mediterranean twist.
- Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each meatball for a cheesy surprise when you bite into them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatball mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can form the meatballs, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, and then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an additional 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken can be used as a substitute for ground turkey. The flavor and texture will be similar, but make sure the meatballs are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. What can I serve with turkey meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with a variety of sides, such as pasta with marinara sauce, mashed potatoes, a green salad, or even roasted vegetables. They’re also great as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like marinara or a yogurt-based sauce.
Baked Turkey Meatballs are a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional beef meatballs. They’re easy to make, versatile, and perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner. Whether served with pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. Try them out and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s also good for you!
