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Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Turkey Meatballs Recipe - Cheap Delicious Meals

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I want to share one of my go-to recipes that has become a staple for both busy weeknights and gatherings with friends. Turkey meatballs are easy to make and full of flavor. 
I discovered this recipe a few years back when I was trying to find a leaner alternative to traditional meatballs. My kids love them, and I love that they’re packed with protein and can be customized in endless ways. Let’s dive in!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 7
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2/3 cup finely chopped onion: Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil for frying
  • 2 pounds lean ground turkey 93% lean
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt: Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs, panko, or rolled oats: For added texture.
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced: For a punch of flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Adds subtle heat.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sweet basil: A classic Italian herb.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves: Complements the basil.
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, minced: Freshness and color.
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: A hint of smokiness.
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra layer of flavor.

Method
 

  1. Now, let’s get cooking! I’ll break it down into simple steps, so it’s easy to follow.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the meatballs will bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, and all the spices. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly. Be careful not to overmix—it can make the meatballs tough.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
  1. With your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball. You should end up with about 24 meatballs, depending on the size.
Step 4: Fry or Bake
  1. You can choose to fry or bake your meatballs.
  2. To Fry: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. They don’t need to be cooked through at this stage; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
  3. To Bake: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Add to Sauce
  1. If you’re making a meatball sub or spaghetti and meatballs, add these to your favorite marinara or pasta sauce after they’ve been browned (or baked). Let them simmer for about 10 minutes to absorb the sauce flavors.

Notes

Here are some tips to elevate your turkey meatballs:
  • Keep it Moist: Adding chopped veggies like bell peppers or grated zucchini can ensure your meatballs don’t dry out.
  • Chill Before Cooking: If you have time, refrigerate the formed meatballs for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape.
  • Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor.
  • Customize: If you like it spicy, add red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Experiment with Binders: Try using crushed crackers or oats instead of breadcrumbs for a different texture.