Flavors Worth Savoring
As a busy parent, finding time to cook a healthy meal can be tough. But this turkey meatballs recipe makes it easy. In just 30 minutes, you can make tender, tasty meatballs that everyone will enjoy. They’re a healthier choice than beef meatballs, but just as flavorful.
So, what makes these turkey meatballs stand out? It’s the mix of ground turkey, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasoning. This combo makes a dish that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners. You’ll need just 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. Plus, you get 30 meatballs, great for leftovers or feeding a group.
Why These Turkey Meatballs Are Perfect for Quick Dinners
Looking for a healthy and tasty meal that’s quick to make? These turkey meatballs are your answer. They’re made with 93% lean ground turkey. This makes them a healthier choice than beef, but still juicy and tasty.
Health Benefits of Choosing Turkey Over Beef
Ground turkey has less fat and cholesterol than beef. Each serving of these turkey meatballs packs 37g of protein. They also have important vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron.
Time-Saving Preparation Tips
- These turkey meatballs are ready in just 30 minutes. They’re perfect for busy weeknights.
- They’re baked at 375°F for about 15 minutes. This keeps them tender and juicy.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months. They’re great for turkey meatball meal prep.
Versatility in Serving Options
These turkey meatballs can be served in many ways. Try them over pasta, with roasted veggies, or as a snack for kids. They’re a hit with families, with a 5.0 average rating from 35 reviews.
Essential Ingredients for Juicy Turkey Meatballs
Creating delicious turkey meatballs starts with the right ingredients. Use 93% lean ground turkey thighs for the best results. The thighs’ fat content makes the meatballs juicy, unlike the drier turkey breast.
You’ll also need a few key ingredients to bind the meatballs and add flavor:
- Breadcrumbs (whole wheat or regular)
- Parmesan cheese
- Milk
- Egg
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic
- Salt and black pepper
Adding a tablespoon each of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard can make the meatballs even juicier. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal flavor. It’s important to mix the ingredients gently to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey thighs (93% lean) | 1 pound |
| Breadcrumbs (whole wheat or regular) | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
With these ingredients, you can make juicy, flavorful turkey meatballs for a quick and tasty dinner.
Turkey Meatballs Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making delicious turkey meatballs is simple. Just a few steps and you’ll have tasty, juicy meatballs ready to go. Follow this turkey meatballs recipe for a great meal.
Mixing and Forming the Meatballs
Begin by mixing all the ingredients in a big bowl. Use your hands to mix the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until they’re well combined. Let it sit for 10-20 minutes to blend the flavors.
After resting, shape the mixture into 1-1¼ inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet or plate for cooking.
Cooking Temperature and Timing
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Put the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 13-15 minutes, until they’re 165°F (74°C) inside.
For a crispy outside, broil them for 2-5 minutes after baking. Or, pan-fry in olive oil over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Then, add water, cover, and cook for 3 more minutes.
Testing for Doneness
Check the meatballs with a meat thermometer. They should be 165°F (74°C) inside. If not, keep cooking until they’re done.
When they’re cooked, serve them. Enjoy them alone, with pasta, in soup, or in many dishes. These turkey meatballs recipe are versatile and delicious!
Pro Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor
To get the perfect texture and flavor in your baked turkey meatballs, follow these tips. Make sure the meatballs are all the same size for even cooking. To get a crispy outside, try broiling them after baking.
Don’t overwork the meat mixture. This can make the meatballs tough. For juicier meatballs, use ground turkey thighs instead of breasts.
When shaping the meatballs, wet your hands a bit to stop the mixture from sticking. You can also add cumin for warmth or use ghee for a richer taste. Try serving them with different sauces like marinara, harissa, tahini, or ranch for more flavor.
By using these tips, you’ll make the tastiest and most tender turkey meatballs every time. Share them with your loved ones and enjoy the delicious outcome!
