These ground turkey meatballs are tasty and light, making them a great choice for any meal! They’re packed with flavor and are super simple to make, so you can whip them up in no time.
Don’t worry if they roll off the plate—just call it a meatball tumble! I love serving them with pasta or in sandwiches. They’re a delicious way to eat healthier without fun being sacrificed.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the recipe, offering a lean protein option. If you prefer, you can substitute with ground chicken or even lean beef for a different flavor.
Bread Crumbs: Whole wheat breadcrumbs add a nice texture and flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a salty kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor as a substitute.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds brightness and color. For a different herb choice, basil or fresh cilantro works well too.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything together. If you’re vegan or have egg allergies, a flaxseed meal or applesauce can act as a binder instead.
Seasonings: Dried oregano and basil bring a lovely Italian flavor. Feel free to mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
How Can I Shape the Perfect Meatballs?
Shaping meatballs may seem tricky, but it’s easy when you follow a few simple steps. It’s important to work gently with the mixture to keep them tender.
- Wet your hands slightly with water to prevent sticking, then scoop out a portion of the mixture.
- Roll it between your hands to form a ball about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Don’t overpack them; a light touch helps keep them soft.
- Place the shaped meatballs on a plate and give them a few minutes to rest before cooking.
This resting time allows the flavors to meld and makes them easier to handle while cooking. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Ground Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in total, get ready to spend about 30-35 minutes from start to finish! You’ll be enjoying delicious meatballs in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you want a little extra kick). Use a fork or your hands to mix everything together until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatballs tough.
2. Shaping the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to shape your meatballs! Using your hands, take some of the mixture and form it into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 12-15 meatballs, depending on how big you make them. Try to keep them all about the same size so they cook evenly.
3. Cooking the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning them gently so they brown nicely all around. You’ll want to make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
4. Finishing Touches:
When your meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil, if you like. Serve them warm, and feel free to pair them with marinara sauce and spaghetti, or enjoy them on their own. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a colorful touch!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, ground beef, or even ground pork in this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the fat content and type of meat. Always ensure that the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you need a breadcrumb substitute, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers, oats (processed into a flour), or even cooked quinoa for different textures. Just make sure that the dry ingredients balance the moisture in the mixture so the meatballs hold their shape.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Bake These Meatballs Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking is a healthier option that still gives you delicious results!
