The Juciest Turkey Meatballs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Discover the secret to making the juiciest turkey meatballs that are full of flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-05T04:46:51.784Z

These turkey meatballs are not only juicy but also packed with flavor, making them a family favorite. They are perfect for pasta dishes, sandwiches, or simply served with a dipping sauce.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Incredibly juicy and flavorful, thanks to a secret ingredient!
  • Easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
  • Versatile for various dishes, from spaghetti to subs.

The Secret to Juiciness

The key to crafting the juiciest turkey meatballs lies in a combination of ingredients that lock in moisture. Ground turkey, while lean, can easily dry out during cooking. However, by incorporating milk and breadcrumbs into the mixture, you create a moist environment that keeps the meatballs tender. The breadcrumbs soak up the milk, which helps to hold the meatballs together while ensuring they remain succulent, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Adding grated Parmesan cheese elevates the flavor profile, providing a rich, savory depth. The combination of fresh parsley and garlic not only contributes to the overall taste but also adds a touch of freshness. This thoughtful blend of ingredients is what sets these turkey meatballs apart from traditional recipes, ensuring that they are both delicious and satisfying.

Versatility at Its Best

One of the standout features of these turkey meatballs is their versatility. They can be served in numerous ways, adapting to various cuisines and preferences. Whether you prefer them tossed in a classic marinara sauce over spaghetti, served in a sub sandwich with melted cheese, or as a tasty appetizer with dipping sauce, these meatballs fit the bill perfectly. This flexibility makes them an ideal choice for family dinners, parties, or meal prep for the week ahead.

Moreover, you can easily customize the flavors to suit your palate. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even add ingredients like chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra twist. The foundational recipe remains reliable, allowing for countless variations while still delivering that desired juiciness and flavor.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These turkey meatballs are not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prepping. Preparing a large batch at once can save you time and effort throughout the week. After baking, simply allow the meatballs to cool before storing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen for longer storage, making them a convenient go-to for quick meals.

When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, and they will retain their moisture and flavor. Pair them with your favorite sides or toss them in salads for a hearty meal. Planning ahead with these meatballs means you can enjoy wholesome, homemade food without the stress of daily cooking.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

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

For the Sauce

  • 1 jar marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Combine all ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Mix Ingredients

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

Form Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Bake the Meatballs

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes or until cooked through.

Heat the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in Italian seasoning.

Serve

Once cooked, toss the meatballs in the sauce and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious turkey meatballs!

Storage Tips

To ensure the best quality and taste, store leftover turkey meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to four days, making them perfect for meal prep. If you wish to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. This method prevents them from sticking together, allowing for easy portioning later.

When reheating frozen meatballs, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain their texture. You can then reheat them in your favorite sauce or simply in the microwave for a quick meal.

Pairing Suggestions

These turkey meatballs shine when paired with a variety of side dishes. For a classic Italian meal, serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Alternatively, for a comforting option, try them in a meatball sub topped with melted mozzarella and served with a side of crispy fries. The possibilities are endless!

For a lighter meal, consider serving the meatballs with a fresh salad or in a grain bowl with roasted vegetables and quinoa. The juiciness of the meatballs complements the freshness of the greens beautifully, creating a well-rounded dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken is a great alternative and will yield similar results.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with turkey meatballs?

They pair well with pasta, rice, or in a sub sandwich.

The Juciest Turkey Meatballs

Discover the secret to making the juiciest turkey meatballs that are full of flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Meatballs

  1. 1 lb ground turkey
  2. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  5. 1 egg
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 1 tsp onion powder
  8. 1 tsp salt
  9. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  10. 1/4 cup milk

For the Sauce

  1. 1 jar marinara sauce
  2. 1 tsp Italian seasoning

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 02

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

Step 03

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 04

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 05

While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in Italian seasoning.

Step 06

Once cooked, toss the meatballs in the sauce and serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 25g