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+ servings
Sheila Browder

Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe

When it comes to turkey meatballs, the choices for sides and sauces are nearly endless. You can easily create a meal that delights the taste buds and leaves everyone satisfied.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 541

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground turkey 93% lean
  • 1/2 bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley finely chopped
  • 1 small yellow onion finely grated or minced
  • 1/2 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese divided (about 2 oz)
  • 1/3 cup Italian-seasoned fine breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground dried sage
  • 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 2 ounces thinly sliced pancetta or prosciutto finely chopped

Equipment

  • A small bowl, baking sheet

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking meatballs, allowing them to cook evenly and become golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped parsley, minced onion, ricotta cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan. Adding ricotta gives the meatballs a creamy texture, while the onion infuses flavor.
Step 3: Add the Binder
  1. Now, add the breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, sage, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. These ingredients help bind the mixture while providing flavor. Mix everything gently using your hands. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tougher meatballs.
Step 4: Form the Meatballs
  1. With clean hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. You can choose how large or small you want your meatballs, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Step 5: Bake
  1. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the meatballs. Bake them in the preheated oven for around 20 to 25 minutes. Check for doneness; they should be cooked through and golden on the outside. An instant-read thermometer should register 165°F (74°C) in the center of a meatball.

Nutrition

Calories: 541kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 24gFat: 44.4gSaturated Fat: 14.4gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 142mgSodium: 1301mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 22IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 23mgIron: 15mg

Notes

To have the best experience whipping up baked turkey meatballs, check out these helpful tips:
  • Trust the Turkey: Opt for fresh or high-quality ground turkey for the best flavor. Avoid overly lean turkey, as that can result in dry meatballs.
  • Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix and match herbs and spices! Try basil, oregano, or thyme for different flavor profiles.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until incorporated. This helps keep the meatballs tender rather than dense.
  • Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform meatballs, a cookie scoop can help. This ensures consistent sizes, leading to even cooking.
  • Make It a Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze well. Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy meal later.

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