Baked Turkey Meatballs

Name: Baked Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Marinara sauce; Spaghetti or whole wheat noodles; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Meals

I love making Baked Turkey Meatballs, especially when I want a healthier twist on a classic dish. These meatballs are not only delicious but also packed with flavor from the herbs and spices I use. Baking them instead of frying keeps them tender and juicy without extra oil. Using ground turkey makes them lean and a little lighter than traditional meatballs, making them perfect for weeknight meals or meal prepping for the week. I guarantee you and your family will enjoy these flavorful morsels just as much as I do!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:17:35.764Z

When I first decided to try making turkey meatballs, I wasn't sure how they would turn out. I was pleasantly surprised by their flavor and texture! The combination of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic spices made all the difference. I've tweaked the recipe over time, and now I use fresh herbs for an extra kick of flavor.

One little trick I learned is to let the meatballs chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape while cooking. Trust me, this simple step is worth it and gives you the perfect meatball every time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Lean and healthy without sacrificing flavor
Perfectly seasoned and juicy meatballs
Great for meal prep and can be frozen
Versatile – serve with pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own

Perfecting Your Meatballs

Achieving the ideal texture for your turkey meatballs is crucial. The combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavor but also ensures moisture retention during baking. If you find your mixture too wet or dry, adjust by adding more breadcrumbs or a splash of water. The meatballs should feel firm but not overly packed; gentle handling is key to tenderness.

Don’t skip the chilling step before baking! This is essential for helping the meatballs maintain their shape while they cook. If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding grated onion or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. These small additions can elevate the taste profile significantly.

Serving Suggestions

These baked turkey meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. For a classic approach, serve them over spaghetti or whole wheat noodles, simmered in marinara sauce. Alternatively, you can make a hearty sandwich by placing them in a hoagie roll topped with melted mozzarella for an Italian sub-inspired meal. The freshness of basil as a garnish not only looks appealing but also adds a burst of aromatic flavor.

For a lighter option, consider serving them with a side salad or roasted vegetables. You can also skew them on sticks for a fun appetizer at your next gathering. Experimenting with different sauces, such as BBQ or teriyaki, can even give these meatballs an Asian twist, making them suitable for a variety of palates.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Meatballs

1 pound ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Marinara sauce
Spaghetti or whole wheat noodles
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

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 ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Shape the Meatballs

With clean hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Chill in the Fridge

Refrigerate the meatballs for about 20 minutes to help them hold their shape.

Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.

Serve

Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over spaghetti or your choice of noodles. Garnish with fresh basil.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding some crushed red pepper for heat or finely chopped vegetables to the meatball mixture for added nutrition.

Meal Prep and Storage

One of the best aspects of these turkey meatballs is their suitability for meal prep. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. They can also be frozen; arrange cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. This method prevents them from sticking together and allows for easy portioning.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen meatballs, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven. For oven reheating, place them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps restore their original texture, making them just as delicious as when they were freshly baked.

Variations and Tips

Feel free to experiment with the herbs and spices used in this recipe. If you’re a fan of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your meatballs a delightful kick. For a Mediterranean flair, try substituting feta cheese for Parmesan and adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes. The options are endless, as you can tailor the flavors to suit your personal taste or the season.

If you prefer a meatier texture, consider using a blend of ground turkey and ground chicken or beef. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different meats may require slight adjustments. Mixing in grated zucchini or carrot can also boost the nutritional value while keeping the meatballs moist without overpowering the turkey flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well and will give a similar result.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add cheese inside the meatballs?

Absolutely! Adding a small cube of mozzarella in the center before baking creates a delicious surprise.

→ What can I serve these meatballs with?

They’re great with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or even on their own as an appetizer.