Turkey meatballs are the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. This recipe takes a healthier twist on the classic, using lean ground turkey, fresh herbs, and a touch of Parmesan for richness. Easy to prepare and versatile, these meatballs are a great addition to pasta dishes, subs, or as a protein-packed snack.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 small yellow onion, peeled
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (light or whole)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or ¾ tsp garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried, lightly crushed)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon granulated beef bouillon or 1 crushed cube (optional, see notes)
- 1/2 teaspoon EACH salt and pepper
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
- Olive oil for brushing or cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the onion: Grate the onion using the large holes of a box grater to extract its juice. Add the grated onion and its juice to a large mixing bowl.
- Combine the base ingredients: To the bowl with the onion, add the egg, Greek yogurt, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, basil, parsley, rosemary, oregano, granulated beef bouillon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Add the turkey: Gently fold the ground turkey into the mixture. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender meatballs.
- Shape the meatballs: Using clean hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Prepare for cooking: Lightly brush the meatballs with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray to help them brown.
- Cook the meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes or until they’re fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the turkey meatballs warm with your favorite pasta, over rice, or as a protein-packed snack with a dipping sauce like marinara or tzatziki.
Conclusion:
These Juicy & Flavorful Turkey Meatballs are proof that healthy eating can be delicious. Packed with herbs and creamy Parmesan, they’re tender and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether served with pasta or enjoyed on their own, these meatballs are a versatile recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Juicy & Flavorful Turkey Meatballs: A Healthier Comfort Classic
A healthier twist on classic meatballs, made with lean turkey, fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1/2 small yellow onion peeled
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt light or whole
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic minced (or ¾ tsp garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or 1 tsp dried
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 tsp dried
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or ½ tsp dried, lightly crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon granulated beef bouillon or 1 crushed cube optional, see notes
- 1/2 teaspoon EACH salt and pepper
- 1 pound ground turkey 93% lean
- Olive oil for brushing or cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the onion: Grate the onion using the large holes of a box grater to extract its juice. Add the grated onion and its juice to a large mixing bowl.
- Combine the base ingredients: To the bowl with the onion, add the egg, Greek yogurt, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, basil, parsley, rosemary, oregano, granulated beef bouillon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Add the turkey: Gently fold the ground turkey into the mixture. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender meatballs.
- Shape the meatballs: Using clean hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Prepare for cooking: Lightly brush the meatballs with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray to help them brown.
- Cook the meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes or until they’re fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the turkey meatballs warm with your favorite pasta, over rice, or as a protein-packed snack with a dipping sauce like marinara or tzatziki.