Turkey Meatballs
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4 (4 meatballs each)
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Calories
213 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
Turkey Meatballs
Description
Turkey Meatballs use one pound of 93% lean ground turkey mixed with plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and a large egg. Combining these ingredients gently ensures the meat remains tender rather than tough. The mixture is divided into sixteen meatballs, each about two tablespoons.
For baking, meatballs are placed on a parchment-lined sheet and cooked at 400ºF for about 20 minutes, until cooked through. For added browning, they can be transferred to a hot skillet with butter after initial baking to achieve a browned crust. Alternatively, an air fryer preheated to 400ºF can cook them in about 8 minutes.
The Italian seasoning provides herbal notes while garlic and onion powders contribute depth. Parmesan cheese enriches the flavor and umami profile. Breadcrumbs and egg bind the mixture and retain moisture, preventing dryness. These meatballs work well served with pasta, in sandwiches, or alongside salads.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs $0.30
- 2 Tbsp Parmesan Cheese $0.22, grated
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning $0.20
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder $0.02
- 1/2 tsp onion powder $0.03
- 1/4 tsp black pepper $0.02
- 1/2 tsp salt $0.02
- 1 lb. ground turkey $4.99
- 1 large egg $0.18
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF. In a bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the ground turkey to a separate large bowl, then add the egg and breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands to mix everything together until evenly combined. Try not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Divide and shape the meat mixture into 16 meatballs, about two tablespoons each. To easily divide the meat evenly, first divide it into quarters, then divide each quarter into four pieces.
Baking Instructions:
- Place the shaped meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Transfer the meatballs to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until cooked through. If you prefer more browning, bake the meatballs for 15 minutes, then transfer the meatballs to a hot skillet with butter and sauté until brown, about five minutes. Serve and enjoy!
Air Fryer Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400ºF. Air fry the meatballs for about 8 minutes, or until well browned and cooked through. Shake the meatballs half-way through cooking to turn the meatballs and achieve even browning. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Stove Top Instructions:
- Add 1 Tbsp olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium. Once hot, add the meatballs (work in batches of about 8). Cook the meatballs in the hot skillet until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes each side).
Notes
- Use 93% lean ground turkey to balance flavor and moisture; 99% lean may result in tougher meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs combined with egg help the meatballs hold together and stay tender during cooking.
- Parmesan cheese adds umami depth, enhancing richness without overpowering the turkey.
- A store-bought Italian seasoning blend delivers herbal flavor that pairs well with garlic and onion powder.
- To achieve browning, bake first and then optionally sauté meatballs briefly in butter for a crisp surface.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4(4 meatballs each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 213 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 4meatballs | |
| Calories | 213kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 11g | 4% |
| Protein | 31g | 62% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Sodium | 509mg | 21% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.