Healthy Ground Turkey Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These meatballs are packed with protein and flavor while being lower in fat than traditional beef . They’re versatile—you can serve them with marinara and pasta, on top of salads, in wraps, or with vegetables for a complete meal. Since they’re baked, they’re easy to make in batches, making them perfect for freezing and reheating.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lean ground turkey

• Egg

• Whole wheat breadcrumbs (or regular)

• Onion (grated or finely chopped)

• Garlic (minced)

• Fresh parsley

• Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Salt and pepper

• Italian seasoning (or oregano and basil)

• Olive oil spray (for baking)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, Parmesan (if using), salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined.

3. Roll mixture into 1–1.5 inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.

4. Lightly spray with olive oil to help them brown.

5. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve with your favorite sauce or sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20 meatballs (4 servings).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.

• Use oat flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

• Swap parsley for cilantro and add chili flakes for a spicy version.

• Mix in shredded mozzarella for cheesy centers.

• Toss in buffalo sauce or teriyaki glaze instead of marinara for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave in short intervals. For longer storage, freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I cook these meatballs in a skillet instead of baking?

Yes, cook them in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through.

Can I air fry turkey meatballs?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through.

How do I keep turkey meatballs from drying out?

Add grated onion or a splash of milk to keep them moist, and avoid overbaking.

Can I make them without breadcrumbs?

Yes, substitute with almond flour, oat flour, or crushed crackers.

Do I need to use egg?

The egg helps bind the meatballs, but you can replace it with a flax egg or mashed potato for a binder.

Can I freeze turkey meatballs before cooking?

Yes, shape them, place on a tray to freeze, then store in a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

What sauces go well with these meatballs?

Marinara, buffalo, teriyaki, pesto, or tzatziki are all great options.

Are turkey meatballs healthier than beef meatballs?

Yes, ground turkey is leaner and lower in saturated fat compared to beef.

Can I make these meatballs dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What should I serve with turkey meatballs?

They’re great with pasta, rice, roasted veggies, zoodles, or inside a sandwich.

Conclusion

Healthy Ground Turkey Meatballs are a delicious, nutritious, and versatile recipe that fits perfectly into a balanced diet. With their juicy texture, lean protein, and endless serving options, they’re a family-friendly meal you’ll want to make again and again.

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