Turkey meatballs are a versatile and lighter option compared to traditional beef or pork meatballs. They’re seasoned with a mix of herbs and spices for maximum flavor and can be baked, pan-fried, or simmered in your favorite sauce. Serve them over pasta, in a sandwich, or as a protein-packed snack.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet (if baking)
- Parchment paper
- Large skillet (if pan-frying)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small scoop or spoon
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (if pan-frying)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven or Prepare Skillet:
- If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If pan-frying, heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, onion powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatballs dense. - Shape the Meatballs:
Use a small scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet or a plate if pan-frying. - Cook the Meatballs:
- Baking: Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-Frying: Place the meatballs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.
- Serve:
Serve the turkey meatballs with marinara sauce, over spaghetti, in a sub roll, or alongside roasted vegetables.
Tips:
- To keep the meatballs moist, don’t overwork the mixture.
- Add a splash of milk to the mixture for extra tenderness.
- Freeze uncooked meatballs for quick meals later; just thaw and cook as directed.
These Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic dish. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, they’re a fantastic addition to your weekly menu. Enjoy them fresh or as part of your meal prep rotation!
Turkey Meatballs Recipe
These Turkey Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, they’re a healthy, protein-packed alternative to classic meatballs.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet (if baking)
- Parchment paper
- Large skillet (if pan-frying)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small scoop or spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey 93% lean
- ½ cup breadcrumbs regular or panko
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 –2 tablespoons olive oil if pan-frying
Instructions
- Preheat Oven or Prepare Skillet:
- If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If pan-frying, heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, onion powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatballs dense.
- Shape the Meatballs:
- Use a small scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet or a plate if pan-frying.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Baking: Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-Frying: Place the meatballs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Serve the turkey meatballs with marinara sauce, over spaghetti, in a sub roll, or alongside roasted vegetables.
Leave a Reply