Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs Flavorful and Easy Meal

Name: Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 0.5 cup breadcrumbs; 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 0.25 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 cup honey; 0.25 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon of water (optional, for thickening)

by Harper on January 15, 2025

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs are the perfect choice. They’re not only easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor. With simple ingredients like ground turkey, garlic, and honey, you can create a dish everyone will love. Get ready to enjoy a warm meal that’s both fun to make and delicious to eat! Let’s dive into how to whip up these tasty meatballs.

$- 1 lb ground turkey - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup finely chopped onion I love using ground turkey for these meatballs. It’s lean, tasty, and works well with honey and garlic. The breadcrumbs help keep the meatballs fluffy. Grated Parmesan adds a nice, cheesy flavor. Finely chopped onion gives them sweetness and moisture. - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Garlic is a must-have for flavor. I use minced garlic to ensure it blends well. Honey brings a sweet touch that balances the saltiness of soy sauce. The apple cider vinegar adds a bit of tang, making the sauce lively. - 1 large egg - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon of water (optional, for thickening) The egg binds everything together, making the meatballs hold their shape. Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. Black pepper and salt are key for seasoning. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor. If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water to get that perfect texture. {{ingredient_image_1}} Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for cooking the meatballs evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps the meatballs cook better. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well with your hands or a spoon. Make sure all ingredients are evenly mixed for great flavor. Shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the lined baking sheet. You should get about 20 meatballs. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be cooked all the way through. While the meatballs bake, make the honey garlic sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until everything combines well. Bring the mix to a gentle simmer. For a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixed with water. Stir until it thickens, which takes 1-2 minutes. Once the meatballs are done baking, take them out of the oven. Toss the hot meatballs in the honey garlic sauce. Make sure they are well coated. Serve them hot, and if you like, drizzle extra sauce on top for a sweet finish. To get the best meatballs, size matters. Make all meatballs about 1 inch wide. This helps them cook evenly. If they are different sizes, some will be overcooked and others undercooked. Uniformity is key for a great texture and taste. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the meatballs on a platter. You can nestle them in fresh spinach or a bed of cooked rice. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or more parsley on top. This adds color and makes the dish pop. Serve with toothpicks for easy eating. You can swap ground turkey with ground chicken for a lighter taste. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Don’t have honey? Maple syrup works great as a sweet substitute. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and garlic will enhance the flavor of your meatballs, making them more aromatic and delicious. Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the honey and soy sauce ratio in the honey garlic sauce to suit your taste preference—more honey for sweetness or more soy sauce for saltiness. Experiment with Spices: Add spices such as ginger or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for an extra kick of flavor. Meal Prep Friendly: These meatballs freeze well! Make a double batch and freeze extras for a quick meal later. {{image_2}} You can easily make these meatballs fit your diet. For a gluten-free version, swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can also use ground oats or crushed rice crackers. If you want a low-calorie option, try using lean ground turkey breast. This change cuts down on fat while keeping the meatballs tasty. Want to kick up the flavor? Consider adding red pepper flakes for some spice. You can also mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fresh twist. If you love smokiness, try adding a bit of smoked paprika. These small changes can make your meatballs stand out. Pair these meatballs with a variety of sides. Serve them over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You can also add them to a fresh salad for a lighter option. Drizzle extra honey garlic sauce over veggies for a sweet side dish. Don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds or chopped parsley for extra flair. To keep your honey garlic turkey meatballs fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure the meatballs are cool before sealing. Store the container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option. To freeze the meatballs, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. After that, transfer the meatballs to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. When you're ready to eat, you can reheat them straight from the freezer. Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. They will be delicious and ready to enjoy. When stored properly, cooked honey garlic turkey meatballs last about 3 days in the fridge. In the freezer, they can last up to 3 months. For the best taste, try to eat them within this time. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming. This ensures your meal is safe and tasty. You can serve many side dishes with honey garlic turkey meatballs. Here are some great options: - Steamed broccoli - Rice or quinoa - Mashed potatoes - Stir-fried vegetables - A fresh garden salad These sides balance the sweet and savory flavors of the meatballs. They also add texture and color to your plate. Yes, you can use ground chicken in place of turkey. Ground chicken has a similar texture and taste. It will still work well with the honey garlic sauce. Just ensure you follow the same mixing and cooking steps. To check if the meatballs are done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can also cut one in half to check for doneness. The meat should be no longer pink and juices should run clear. Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it on the stove before coating the meatballs. This saves time on busy days and keeps flavors fresh. This blog post covered how to make tasty honey garlic turkey meatballs. We discussed the main ingredients, mixing, shaping, and baking steps. You picked up helpful tips on storage, serving, and easy substitutions. Variations let you customize flavors or swap ingredients. These meatballs are simple and delicious, perfect for any meal. Enjoy making them and impressing your family!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Healthy Alternative: These turkey meatballs are a lighter option compared to traditional meatballs, making them a great choice for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal hands-on time, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Versatile Dish: These meatballs can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even added to pasta and salads for a delicious twist.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and garlic in the sauce creates a sweet and savory flavor that is both addictive and satisfying.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb ground turkey

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

I love using ground turkey for these meatballs. It’s lean, tasty, and works well with honey and garlic. The breadcrumbs help keep the meatballs fluffy. Grated Parmesan adds a nice, cheesy flavor. Finely chopped onion gives them sweetness and moisture.

Flavoring Ingredients

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Garlic is a must-have for flavor. I use minced garlic to ensure it blends well. Honey brings a sweet touch that balances the saltiness of soy sauce. The apple cider vinegar adds a bit of tang, making the sauce lively.

Additional Elements

– 1 large egg

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon sesame oil

– 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon of water (optional, for thickening)

The egg binds everything together, making the meatballs hold their shape. Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. Black pepper and salt are key for seasoning. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor. If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water to get that perfect texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for cooking the meatballs evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps the meatballs cook better.

Mixing Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well with your hands or a spoon. Make sure all ingredients are evenly mixed for great flavor.

Forming and Baking

Shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the lined baking sheet. You should get about 20 meatballs. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be cooked all the way through.

Making the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the meatballs bake, make the honey garlic sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until everything combines well. Bring the mix to a gentle simmer. For a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixed with water. Stir until it thickens, which takes 1-2 minutes.

Coating the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are done baking, take them out of the oven. Toss the hot meatballs in the honey garlic sauce. Make sure they are well coated. Serve them hot, and if you like, drizzle extra sauce on top for a sweet finish.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To get the best meatballs, size matters. Make all meatballs about 1 inch wide. This helps them cook evenly. If they are different sizes, some will be overcooked and others undercooked. Uniformity is key for a great texture and taste.

Serving Tips

For a beautiful presentation, arrange the meatballs on a platter. You can nestle them in fresh spinach or a bed of cooked rice. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or more parsley on top. This adds color and makes the dish pop. Serve with toothpicks for easy eating.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey with ground chicken for a lighter taste. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Don’t have honey? Maple syrup works great as a sweet substitute.

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and garlic will enhance the flavor of your meatballs, making them more aromatic and delicious.
Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the honey and soy sauce ratio in the honey garlic sauce to suit your taste preference—more honey for sweetness or more soy sauce for saltiness.
Experiment with Spices: Add spices such as ginger or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for an extra kick of flavor.
Meal Prep Friendly: These meatballs freeze well! Make a double batch and freeze extras for a quick meal later.

Variations

Dietary Variations

You can easily make these meatballs fit your diet. For a gluten-free version, swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can also use ground oats or crushed rice crackers. If you want a low-calorie option, try using lean ground turkey breast. This change cuts down on fat while keeping the meatballs tasty.

Flavor Variations

Want to kick up the flavor? Consider adding red pepper flakes for some spice. You can also mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fresh twist. If you love smokiness, try adding a bit of smoked paprika. These small changes can make your meatballs stand out.

Serving Variations

Pair these meatballs with a variety of sides. Serve them over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You can also add them to a fresh salad for a lighter option. Drizzle extra honey garlic sauce over veggies for a sweet side dish. Don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds or chopped parsley for extra flair.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your honey garlic turkey meatballs fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure the meatballs are cool before sealing. Store the container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the meatballs, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. After that, transfer the meatballs to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them straight from the freezer. Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. They will be delicious and ready to enjoy.

Shelf Life

When stored properly, cooked honey garlic turkey meatballs last about 3 days in the fridge. In the freezer, they can last up to 3 months. For the best taste, try to eat them within this time. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming. This ensures your meal is safe and tasty.

FAQs

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs?

You can serve many side dishes with honey garlic turkey meatballs. Here are some great options:

– Steamed broccoli

– Rice or quinoa

– Mashed potatoes

– Stir-fried vegetables

– A fresh garden salad

These sides balance the sweet and savory flavors of the meatballs. They also add texture and color to your plate.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, you can use ground chicken in place of turkey. Ground chicken has a similar texture and taste. It will still work well with the honey garlic sauce. Just ensure you follow the same mixing and cooking steps.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

To check if the meatballs are done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can also cut one in half to check for doneness. The meat should be no longer pink and juices should run clear.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it on the stove before coating the meatballs. This saves time on busy days and keeps flavors fresh.

This blog post covered how to make tasty honey garlic turkey meatballs. We discussed the main ingredients, mixing, shaping, and baking steps. You picked up helpful tips on storage, serving, and easy substitutions. Variations let you customize flavors or swap ingredients.

These meatballs are simple and delicious, perfect for any meal. Enjoy making them and impressing your famil

Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs

Delicious turkey meatballs coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
0.5 cup breadcrumbs
0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
0.25 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 cup honey
0.25 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon of water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, black pepper, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should yield about 20 meatballs.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the honey garlic sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until well mixed and bring to a gentle simmer.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in the cornstarch mixed with water and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Remove the meatballs from the oven and toss them in the honey garlic sauce until well coated.
Serve the meatballs hot, drizzled with additional sauce if desired.

Notes

Arrange the meatballs on a serving platter, nestling them in a bed of fresh spinach or cooked rice, and garnish with sesame seeds and additional chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Keyword honey garlic, meatballs, turkey