The Best Homemade Turkey Meatballs Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade turkey meatballs are a game-changer for any meal, combining simplicity with big flavor. You’ll love how easy they are to make, using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Healthier Option: Made with lean ground turkey, they’re a lighter alternative to beef without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile: Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or even on their own as a snack.
- Kid-Friendly: Picky eaters will love the mild, delicious flavor, and you’ll love sneaking in some extra veggies.
Recipe
Meatballs are a versatile and beloved dish that can be enjoyed on their own, with pasta, or as part of a sandwich. This homemade turkey meatball recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs, offering a lighter yet equally flavorful option. These turkey meatballs are easy to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb 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
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, ensuring they are evenly sized.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes:
- For a crispier exterior, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Equipment:
Large mixing bowl, skillet, measuring cups and spoons, knife, cutting board
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine:
Italian-American
Serving:
Serves 4
Nutrition
These homemade turkey meatballs are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my turkey meatballs with simple pasta pairings, like spaghetti or penne, because they soak up the sauce so well. For a lighter option, I’ll toss them with roasted veggies, like zucchini or bell peppers, which add color and crunch. Either way, you can’t go wrong—it’s all about what makes your taste buds happy!
Pasta Pairings
There’s nothing like a plate of tender turkey meatballs nestled in a bed of perfectly cooked pasta—it’s comfort food at its best. For sauce recommendations, I love a rich marinara or a creamy Alfredo to let the meatballs shine. Don’t forget cheese toppings—a sprinkle of Parmesan or a melty layer of mozzarella takes it to the next level. Spaghetti’s classic, but penne or fettuccine work just as well. I’ve even tossed them with garlic butter noodles for a quick fix. Whatever you choose, the key is pairing flavors that complement those juicy turkey bites. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven.
Vegetable Sides
While turkey meatballs are delicious on their own, adding a vibrant vegetable side can make the meal even more satisfying. I love pairing them with roasted asparagus—it’s super simple to toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until tender and slightly crispy. Grilled zucchini is another favorite of mine; just slice it into strips, brush with a bit of oil, and grill until it’s got those beautiful char marks. Both options are light, flavorful, and complement the meatballs perfectly. Plus, they add a pop of color to your plate, making the whole meal feel extra special.
