Name: Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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These Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs are a delicious and healthier twist on the classic meatball recipe. Perfectly seasoned with a savory blend of herbs and spices, then coated in a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce, they are the ideal addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them over rice, pasta, or on their own, these turkey meatballs are sure to satisfy your cravings for something both flavorful and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the lean goodness of turkey with a savory-sweet honey garlic sauce that’s irresistible. The ground turkey keeps these meatballs light and healthy, while the honey and garlic add rich layers of flavor. The addition of Parmesan and breadcrumbs ensures they are perfectly tender inside with a golden, slightly crisp exterior. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or prepping them for meal prep, these meatballs are versatile, easy to make, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.
Add wet ingredients: Crack the egg into the bowl, then pour in the soy sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Shape the meatballs: Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This should yield around 20 meatballs.
Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs to the pan. Cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the honey garlic sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, combine honey, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
Coat the meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the meatballs in the skillet, gently tossing to coat them evenly.
Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite side dish.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 30 minutes (including preparation and cooking time)

Variations

Spicy honey garlic meatballs: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
Gluten-free: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
Vegetarian: Use plant-based ground meat alternatives to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
Add vegetables: Add finely grated carrots or zucchini into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition and moisture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the turkey meatballs are fully cooked?

You can check by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of a meatball; it should read 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut one open, and it should be cooked all the way through with no pink remaining inside.

Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken, beef, or pork in place of the turkey. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. You can also freeze them raw and cook them later.

How do I make these meatballs spicier?

To add spice, simply include red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce in the honey garlic sauce or the meatball mixture.

Can I use a store-bought honey garlic sauce?

If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought honey garlic sauce, but making your own adds fresh flavor and is more customizable to your taste.

How do I make the honey garlic sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, simply simmer it on low heat for a few extra minutes. You can also add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can skip the Parmesan if you prefer, but it does add a nice depth of flavor. You could also substitute it with another grated cheese or nutritional yeast if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with a variety of side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. You can also serve them in a sandwich or wrap for a fun twist!

Can I freeze the honey garlic turkey meatballs?

Yes! To freeze, arrange the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

These Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re cooking for the family, meal prepping, or entertaining guests, this recipe is easy, versatile, and sure to impress. With the sweet and savory honey garlic sauce and lean turkey meat, you can feel good about serving these meatballs any day of the week!

Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs