These Classic Turkey Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, offering a lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative to beef. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, they're packed with flavor and easy to make.
Ground turkey serves as a lean protein base, soaking up the flavors of herbs and spices beautifully. Breadcrumbs provide structure and help bind the meatballs, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami-rich depth. Fresh parsley brings a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish. The egg acts as a binding agent, keeping everything together. Garlic infuses the meatballs with its unmistakable aromatic punch. Salt and black pepper are standard seasonings that enhance all the other flavors. Dried oregano and red pepper flakes add a warm, subtle heat and herbal note. Lastly, a drizzle of olive oil ensures a golden, moist finish.
These turkey meatballs pair wonderfully with a classic marinara sauce over spaghetti for a comforting meal. For a lighter option, serve them over a bed of zucchini noodles or alongside a fresh garden salad. They also make a tasty addition to a sub sandwich with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it's hot and ready to bake the meatballs to perfection. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Use your hands to mix everything gently until just combined, making sure not to overwork the mixture as this can make the meatballs tough.
Next, roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs. I find it helpful to keep a bowl of water nearby to dip my hands into, which prevents the mixture from sticking. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet that's lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Drizzle them with olive oil, which helps achieve a lovely golden color and keeps them moist.
Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes. You want to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they're cooked through. Once done, let them rest for a minute or two before serving to keep the juices intact.
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