These Turkey Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and made with lean turkey for a healthier twist on the classic. With fresh parsley, savory herbs, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce, these meatballs pack a punch of flavor. Perfect for serving over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or even as a savory appetizer with dipping sauce!

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them before cooking. Just place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I know when my turkey meatballs are done? The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Turkey meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey? Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for ground turkey. Both options will work well and provide a similar result.

Variations

• Cheesy Turkey Meatballs: Add ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Turkey Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Meatballs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for added flavor.
• Saucy Turkey Meatballs: After frying or baking the meatballs, simmer them in marinara sauce or a homemade tomato sauce for a saucy, flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Lean: Made with 93% lean ground turkey, these meatballs are low in fat but high in flavor.
• Juicy and Tender: The combination of egg, breadcrumbs, and Worcestershire sauce helps keep the meatballs moist and tender.
• Versatile: Serve them in so many ways – with spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or as an appetizer with marinara sauce.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
• ½ cup bread crumbs (or panko or rolled oats)
• ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 tbsp garlic salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs (or panko/rolled oats), chopped onion, minced parsley, egg, minced garlic, dried basil, garlic salt, and black pepper.

Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients gently until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once the mixture is well combined, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 18-20 meatballs, depending on your preferred size.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

• Stovetop Method (Frying):
  Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Oven Method (Baking):
  Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, and arrange the meatballs in a single layer. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Once the meatballs are cooked through, serve them in a variety of ways:

• Over spaghetti with marinara sauce for a classic meal.
• In a sub sandwich with melted cheese and marinara sauce.
• As a snack or appetizer with dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or a creamy garlic dip.

These Turkey Meatballs are a lean, flavorful option that works well in so many dishes. Whether you serve them with pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, they’re sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the combination of juicy turkey and savory herbs with every bite!