Baked Turkey Meatballs

Name: Baked Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 egg; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Marinara sauce (optional); Cooked spaghetti or a fresh salad

Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort

I absolutely love creating flavorsome dishes that are both healthy and satisfying, and these Baked Turkey Meatballs are a perfect example. Using lean turkey, fresh herbs, and spices, they deliver a mouthwatering taste while keeping the calories in check. Whether served as an appetizer or in a hearty pasta dish, these meatballs are a hit with everyone. I enjoy making them in batches, as they freeze wonderfully and are perfect for those busy weeknights. Give them a try; you’ll be impressed by how easy and delicious they are!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:45:36.970Z

When I first tried making turkey meatballs, I was amazed at how juicy and flavorful they turned out. I utilized garlic, parsley, and a hint of Parmesan for a flavorful punch. The baking method not only allows them to cook evenly but also reduces the excess fat without sacrificing taste. I discovered that letting the mixture chill for a bit helps in forming perfect meatballs that hold their shape beautifully.

Another great tip I learned is to adjust the seasoning based on personal taste. Don't hesitate to experiment with different herbs or spices. We once added crushed red pepper for an extra kick, and they became an instant favorite in our household. These meatballs are versatile, quick to prepare, and turn out great every time!

Why You'll Love These Meatballs
Juicy and flavorful without the extra fat
Easy to customize with your favorite herbs
Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep
A healthier alternative to traditional meatballs

Perfecting Your Meatballs

To achieve the ideal meatball texture, it's crucial not to overmix the ingredients. You want a cohesive mixture, but overworking it can lead to dense meatballs. When mixing, aim for a consistency that is slightly sticky but holds together when shaped. If you find the mixture to be too wet, a few extra breadcrumbs can help absorb moisture without impacting flavor.

Another key aspect is the size of your meatballs. Keeping them uniform, ideally 1 inch in diameter, ensures even cooking. If you want a more substantial bite, consider making them slightly larger, but remember that this will increase cooking time. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Ingredient Insights

Using lean ground turkey is a fantastic choice for a healthier meatball, but it can sometimes result in a drier texture compared to beef or pork. To combat this, the addition of grated Parmesan not only contributes flavor but also helps retain moisture during baking. Fresh herbs like parsley brighten the flavor profile and can easily be swapped with other herbs such as basil or cilantro, depending on your preference.

Breadcrumbs play a critical role in binding the meatball and providing a tender structure. If you're looking for gluten-free options, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free varieties or even finely crushed oats. This retains the meatball's integrity while accommodating dietary needs.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking for a seamless experience!

Meatball Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 clove garlic, minced
1 egg
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For Serving

Marinara sauce (optional)
Cooked spaghetti or a fresh salad

Make sure you have all the ingredients ready to go before you start preparing the meatballs!

Instructions

Here’s how to make these delicious baked turkey meatballs:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Form Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Serve

Serve warm with marinara sauce and spaghetti or your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy your homemade baked turkey meatballs!

Pro Tips

For added moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the meatball mixture. This helps to keep them tender and juicy after baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Making these meatballs ahead of time can save you considerable effort on busy weeknights. Once formed, meatballs can be frozen on a baking sheet before being transferred to a freezer bag. This pre-freezing method allows you to avoid sticking and ensures you can take out just what you need later. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to eat, you can cook them straight from frozen. Just increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes, and check their internal temperature to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked. Alternately, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for a quicker bake time.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs pair beautifully with marinara sauce, but don’t limit yourself to just spaghetti. Try them served over zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option, or even on a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal. Complement the dish with a fresh side salad to add a crisp texture that balances the meatballs' richness.

For a fun twist, consider making meatball subs. Just place baked meatballs in a toasted hoagie roll, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese before broiling until bubbly. This transforms your healthy meatballs into a comforting and satisfying sandwich that's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute for turkey in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftover meatballs?

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I bake these meatballs in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or even as a topping for rice or salads.