There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked turkey meatballs wafting through your kitchen, making your taste buds do a happy dance. Picture tender, juicy meatballs, perfectly seasoned and golden brown, just waiting for that first bite. These baked turkey meatballs are not just a meal; they’re an experience that combines flavor and comfort in every bite.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I freeze baked turkey meatballs?
- What should I serve with baked turkey meatballs?
- How do I know when the meatballs are done?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Remember those chaotic family dinners where everyone would argue over who got the last meatball? Well, these gems will have you fighting for seconds (and thirds) while bringing back those cherished memories of laughter and togetherness around the dinner table. Ideal for weekday meals or special gatherings, these turkey meatballs promise to delight everyone who gets to enjoy them.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked turkey meatballs are super easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
- Their savory flavor profile is a crowd-pleaser, bringing smiles to all ages
- Visually appealing and golden-brown, they add charm to any plate
- Versatile enough to serve with pasta, on subs, or even as appetizers for parties
Every time I whip up a batch of these baked turkey meatballs, my friends rave about them. One memorable dinner had my friend declaring them “better than grandma’s,” which is basically the highest compliment one can earn in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for a healthy option without sacrificing flavor; it keeps the meatballs moist.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or Italian breadcrumbs; they help bind everything together while adding a delightful crunch.
- Eggs: One large egg acts as a binding agent, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape during baking.
- Fresh Parsley: Chop finely for freshness; it adds a pop of color and enhances the overall flavor.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for depth of flavor; it infuses the meat with irresistible aroma and taste.
- Onion Powder: This ingredient rounds out the flavors beautifully; it’s like a secret weapon for savory dishes.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient; don’t skimp on these basics.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese gives a rich flavor burst; it melts into the meatballs beautifully while baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased for easy cleanup.
Mix Your Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well incorporated but avoid overmixing to keep them tender.
Shape Those Meatballs: Using your hands (don’t worry—no one will judge), form golf ball-sized meatballs from the mixture. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter so they cook evenly.
Bake to Perfection: Place each shaped meatball on your prepared baking sheet with some space between them. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Add Your Favorite Sauce (Optional): If you’re feeling saucy (pun intended), toss your baked turkey meatballs in marinara or barbecue sauce right before serving. They love a good dip!
Serve and Enjoy!: Once done baking, let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with spaghetti or serve alone as tasty appetizers—either way, prepare for smiles all around!
Ready to dig into these delicious baked turkey meatballs? They are sure to become everyone’s new favorite! For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes.
You Must Know
- Baked turkey meatballs are a leaner alternative packed with flavor
- These meatballs stay juicy and tender, perfect for any meal
- Don’t forget the secret ingredient: a splash of Worcestershire sauce adds an umami kick that will leave everyone wanting more!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your ingredients thoroughly, then shape into meatballs before baking them at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. This ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor while keeping them moist.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken or add herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor. You can also toss in some grated vegetables like zucchini for added nutrition without changing the taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store baked turkey meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave until heated through to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your hands are slightly damp when shaping meatballs; this helps prevent sticking
- Avoid overmixing the meat to keep them tender
- Let baked meatballs rest briefly before serving, allowing juices to redistribute and enhance flavor
Cooking these baked turkey meatballs always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone devoured them before I could even sit down! For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips for meatballs recipe.
FAQ
Can I freeze baked turkey meatballs?
Absolutely! They freeze well and can be stored for up to three months.
What should I serve with baked turkey meatballs?
Pasta, rice, or a fresh salad make excellent pairings with these delicious meatballs.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Baked Turkey Meatballs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 20 meatballs 1x
Description
Experience the joy of homemade baked turkey meatballs, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Juicy, tender, and golden brown, these meatballs are a delightful addition to family dinners or parties that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup plain or Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan until just combined.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter).
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet with space between each.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 64
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
