Baked Turkey Meatballs
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Baked Turkey Meatballs. I remember the first time I made these; it was a chilly evening, and the aroma of baking meatballs filled my kitchen, instantly warming my heart and home. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a casual gathering with friends, these meatballs are a hit. They’re not only easy to make but are also adaptable, allowing you to add your favorite herbs or sauces. I love serving them with a side of pasta or a fresh salad, making them a perfect option for any meal. These Baked Turkey Meatballs have become a staple in my home, and I’m excited to share the joy they’ve brought me. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of these flavorful bites!
Recipe Snapshot
37 mins
20 mins
17 mins
Easy
200 kcal
25 g
Standard
8 g
Grater, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Baking Sheet, Oven
Why This Baked Turkey Meatballs Is So Good
Healthy and Wholesome
One of the things I love most about these Baked Turkey Meatballs is how healthy they are compared to traditional beef meatballs. Using ground turkey not only reduces the fat content but also gives them a lighter flavor, making them perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier meal without sacrificing taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These meatballs are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts. You can make a large batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. Whether you’re tossing them in spaghetti sauce or adding them to a soup, they’re incredibly versatile and save you time on busy nights.
Kid-Friendly
Kids love these meatballs! They’re easy to eat and can be served in a variety of ways, such as in sandwiches or as a fun appetizer at parties. Plus, they’re made with wholesome ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re serving your family.
Flavorful and Satisfying
The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce makes these meatballs incredibly flavorful. They stay juicy and tender thanks to the addition of shredded onion and eggs, ensuring that each bite is satisfying.
Easy to Customize
Don’t hesitate to experiment with these meatballs! You can easily adjust the spices or even switch out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free options. This flexibility makes them a great base recipe that you can customize to fit your taste preferences.
Great for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual dinner at home or a gathering with friends, these Baked Turkey Meatballs are sure to impress. They can be served as appetizers, main dishes, or even as part of a hearty soup. Their versatility makes them a suitable choice for any occasion!
Baked Turkey Meatballs Ingredients
When it comes to the ingredients for Baked Turkey Meatballs, simplicity and quality are key. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the ultimate flavor and texture. Ground turkey serves as a lean base, while breadcrumbs offer binding and lightness. The addition of grated parmesan cheese provides a touch of richness, and shredded onion adds moisture and sweetness. Let’s take a closer look at these ingredients and why they work so beautifully together.
- 2 pounds ground turkey: This lean meat is a healthier alternative to beef, maintaining moisture and flavor while being lower in fat.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: They create a light and crispy texture. You can also use gluten-free panko or quick oats if needed.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: This adds depth and richness, enhancing the overall flavor of the meatballs.
- ½ cup shredded onion: Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, ensuring the meatballs stay juicy.
- 2 large eggs: They act as a binder, helping the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This brings an umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the meatballs.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor to the meatballs.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the meatballs.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides a hint of spice, balancing the flavors.
How to Cook Baked Turkey Meatballs
Cooking Baked Turkey Meatballs is straightforward and enjoyable. I love how the aroma fills the kitchen as these meatballs come together. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly every time.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This high temperature is crucial for achieving a nice golden brown crust on your meatballs. As the oven heats up, line two large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
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In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, shredded onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Using your hands, gently toss and mix the ingredients until they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, portion the meatball mixture onto the prepared baking sheets. You should aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Gently roll each portion into a round shape with your hands, making sure they are smooth and round.
Once all the meatballs are formed, place them on the baking sheets, ensuring they have enough space between them for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until they feel firm to the touch and are cooked through.
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After baking, turn on the broiler for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to achieve a beautiful golden brown top. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as broilers can vary in intensity.
Once done, remove the meatballs from the oven. If desired, you can brush them lightly with olive oil to give them a nice sheen. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Baked Turkey Meatballs!
Things Worth Knowing
- Texture is Key: The mixture should feel moist but not overly wet. If it’s too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
- Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing to avoid dense meatballs. Just enough mixing to combine is perfect.
- Broil for a Finish: Broiling at the end gives a delightful crust; just remember to watch them closely!
- Cooling Time: Let the meatballs cool for a few minutes before serving to help them set and hold their shape.
Helpful Hints
Here are some helpful tips to make your experience with Baked Turkey Meatballs even better. These pointers will help ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly every time.
- Storage: How to store leftovers: Place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 to 6 days.
- Freezing: Can you freeze this? Yes! Cool the meatballs completely and freeze them in an airtight container for up to 4 months.
- Flash Freezing: To keep them loose, flash freeze the meatballs on a baking sheet before transferring to a container.
- Serving Suggestions: Try serving these meatballs with your favorite sauce, on sub rolls, or adding them to soups for a hearty meal.
- Cooking Variations: Feel free to add different herbs or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Accompaniments for Baked Turkey Meatballs
- Pasta Dishes: Serve your Baked Turkey Meatballs over spaghetti or any pasta dish for a classic meal.
- Fresh Salads: Pair them with a side salad for a fresh and light accompaniment.
- Sandwiches: Place them in a sub roll with marinara sauce and cheese for a delicious meatball sub.
- Soup: Add them to soups for added protein and flavor, perfect for comforting bowls of goodness.
- Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, serve them with grilled vegetables, while in winter, cozy up with mashed potatoes.
- Meal Prep: These meatballs are perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners so much easier.
FAQ
Conclusion
These Baked Turkey Meatballs are truly something special, offering a deliciously healthy twist on a classic dish. With their incredible flavor and versatility, they’re perfect for any meal occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! You’ll find that they not only satisfy your cravings but also help you feel good about what you’re eating.
Baked Turkey Meatballs
Equipment
- Grater
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Ground Turkey
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs or GF panko, or quick oats
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- ½ cup Shredded Onion
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This high temperature is crucial for achieving a nice golden brown crust on your meatballs. As the oven heats up, line two large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, shredded onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Using your hands, gently toss and mix the ingredients until they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
- Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, portion the meatball mixture onto the prepared baking sheets. You should aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Gently roll each portion into a round shape with your hands, making sure they are smooth and round.
- Once all the meatballs are formed, place them on the baking sheets, ensuring they have enough space between them for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until they feel firm to the touch and are cooked through.
- After baking, turn on the broiler for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to achieve a beautiful golden brown top. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as broilers can vary in intensity.
- Once done, remove the meatballs from the oven. If desired, you can brush them lightly with olive oil to give them a nice sheen. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Baked Turkey Meatballs!
Notes
- Storage: How to store leftovers: Place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 to 6 days.
- Freezing: Can you freeze this? Yes! Cool the meatballs completely and freeze them in an airtight container for up to 4 months.
- Flash Freezing: To keep them loose, flash freeze the meatballs on a baking sheet before transferring to a container.
- Serving Suggestions: Try serving these meatballs with your favorite sauce, on sub rolls, or adding them to soups for a hearty meal.
- Cooking Variations: Feel free to add different herbs or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
