Juicy Turkey Meatballs – Healthy and Easy to Make

Turkey Meatballs are a delicious, lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs, yet they’re still tender, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. These juicy meatballs come together quickly with simple pantry ingredients, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or healthy family meals. Whether you serve them with pasta, rice, veggies, or in a warm bowl of marinara sauce, they always deliver comfort and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and tender without being greasy
• Uses lean ground turkey for a lighter option
• Perfect for meal prep and reheating
• Versatile, serve with pasta, rice, veggies, or wraps
• Freezer-friendly, making busy nights easier
• Easy spices and simple ingredients

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing or drizzling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley.
3. Mix gently using your hands or a spatula until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
4. Scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush or lightly drizzle the meatballs with olive oil for browning.
6. Bake for 15–17 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve with marinara sauce, pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• Use grated onion instead of onion powder for extra moisture.
• Swap breadcrumbs for oat flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Mix in shredded zucchini to make the meatballs even more tender.
• Simmer the baked meatballs in marinara sauce for 10 minutes to absorb more flavor.
• Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs on a tray, transfer to a freezer bag, and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, oven, or simmer in sauce until warm.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve over pasta with marinara or creamy tomato sauce.
• Pair with rice, quinoa, or couscous for a protein-filled bowl.
• Add to wraps, sandwiches, or salads for a quick lunch.
• Serve with roasted veggies for a complete and balanced meal.
• Pair with garlic bread or soft dinner rolls.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep turkey meatballs from drying out?

Turkey is naturally lean, so moisture matters. Adding ingredients like breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, or Parmesan helps bind the mixture and prevent dryness. Avoid overmixing and make sure not to overbake them. Once they reach 165°F, remove them from the oven to keep them juicy.

Can I cook turkey meatballs in a skillet instead of baking them?

Yes. Heat a bit of oil in a skillet and cook the meatballs over medium heat, turning occasionally until browned on all sides and fully cooked through. This method adds great flavor but requires more hands-on time.

Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?

Absolutely. Replace breadcrumbs with panko for a lighter texture, or use oats, almond flour, or crushed crackers. The goal is to help bind the mixture while keeping the meatballs tender.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the mixture, shape the meatballs, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This is ideal for meal prep and helps the flavors blend beautifully.

Ready to Make It?

These Turkey Meatballs are simple, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week. They’re lean, versatile, and incredibly satisfying—an easy dinner that feels comforting without the heaviness. Save this recipe to enjoy again anytime you need a reliable meal that’s wholesome and delicious.

You Might Also Like

• Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi – Comforting, creamy, and flavorful.
• Garlic Butter Salmon with Veggies – A nutrient-rich, delicious dinner.
• Chickpea Curry – Cozy, hearty, and full of warm spices.
• Baked Meatballs in Marinara Sauce – Another easy, crowd-pleasing classic.

Print