These juicy, flavorful turkey meatballs are the kind of dinner you’ll want to make on repeat. They’re perfectly seasoned with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan, then lightly browned for that golden crust before baking to tender perfection. Serve them tossed in marinara, over spaghetti, or with roasted veggies — trust me, this is one of those simple, feel-good meals you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Comfort Food: Lightened up with lean ground turkey but still full of flavor and satisfying texture.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Made with everyday pantry staples that come together fast.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs reheat beautifully, making them ideal for weekday lunches or dinners.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them with pasta, grain bowls, or even tucked into a sub roll for an easy meatball sandwich.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Turkey Meatballs Recipe — just simple, fresh ingredients that deliver big flavor:
- Ground Turkey – Lean and tender, the perfect base for juicy, healthy meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture and keeps the meatballs soft and moist.
- Egg – Acts as the glue to hold everything together.
- Garlic – Brings that irresistible savory depth.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds saltiness, richness, and umami.
- Fresh Parsley – Gives a pop of freshness and color.
- Onion Powder – Adds subtle, sweet onion flavor without the extra chopping.
- Dried Oregano – Classic Italian flavor that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Olive Oil – Helps brown the meatballs for that golden crust.
- Marinara Sauce (optional) – For serving; adds moisture and that cozy, saucy touch.
Ingredients with measurements can be found below in the recipe card.
How to Make the Turkey Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper — this helps keep cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined. (Tip: overmixing can make the meatballs dense — we want them tender!)
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Use your hands or a small scoop to shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Brown for Flavor
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides, about 3–4 minutes total — this step adds so much flavor and a gorgeous crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Done
Transfer the skillet to the oven (or move the meatballs from the baking sheet onto a baking dish) and bake for 12–15 minutes, until cooked through and golden.
Step 6: Add Sauce (Optional)
If you’re using marinara, warm it in a separate pan and toss the cooked meatballs in until coated and glossy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve them warm — with spaghetti, over rice, or alongside roasted vegetables. Every bite is savory, herby, and perfectly juicy.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overmix: Combine the ingredients gently to keep the texture light and tender.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: It keeps the meatballs uniform in size, so they cook evenly.
- Check for Doneness: Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Want Extra Flavor? Add a splash of milk to the mixture for an even softer texture.
How to Serve
- Classic Style: Toss in marinara and serve over spaghetti or linguine.
- Lighter Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad.
- Party Style: Serve with toothpicks and a side of dipping sauce for easy appetizers.
- Meal Prep Bowl: Add to quinoa or rice with roasted veggies and a drizzle of tahini or pesto.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Warm in a skillet with a bit of sauce, or microwave until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?
Yes! Substitute with crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour for a gluten-free option. The texture will still be soft and delicious.
2. How do I keep turkey meatballs from drying out?
Don’t overcook them, and try mixing in a tablespoon of milk or finely grated onion for extra moisture.
3. Can I bake the meatballs without browning them first?
Absolutely — you can skip the stovetop step and bake them directly at 400°F for about 15–18 minutes. They’ll still be tender and flavorful.
4. What sauce goes best with turkey meatballs?
Marinara is classic, but you can also serve them with BBQ sauce, teriyaki glaze, or even a creamy mushroom sauce — they’re super versatile!
Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined — do not overmix.
- Form mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Optional: Warm marinara sauce in a skillet and toss cooked meatballs in the sauce before serving.
- Serve with spaghetti, on a sub roll, or alongside roasted vegetables.