These baked turkey meatballs are juicy and full of flavor, made with ground turkey and herbs. The lemon garlic butter sauce adds a zesty touch that makes every bite exciting!
Who can resist a dish that’s easy to make and delicious? I like to serve these meatballs over pasta or rice, and they become a lively family favorite in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This keeps the meatballs lean and healthy, but you can use ground chicken or beef if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, try using cooked lentils or a mix of bread crumbs and mushrooms.
Bread Crumbs: Italian or plain breadcrumbs work best, but if you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs or oats. You can also make your own by pulsing stale bread in a food processor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a nice flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can be a good substitute for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh touch. You can swap in other herbs like basil or cilantro if you like a different twist. Dried herbs will work too, but you’ll need less since they’re more concentrated.
How Do You Keep Meatballs Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping meatballs moist is all about the right mixture and cooking technique. Make sure you don’t over-mix the meatball ingredients; this can make them tough. Here’s how to ensure they turn out perfectly:
- Combine all ingredients gently—just mix until combined.
- Form meatballs with wet hands to prevent sticking.
- Space them apart on the baking dish; this helps with even cooking.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; they should reach 165°F (74°C) inside.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce?
The lemon garlic butter sauce is super simple but really elevates the meatballs. Follow these tips to get it just right:
- Melt the butter slowly over medium heat to avoid burning.
- Add the garlic and cook briefly, just until fragrant—don’t let it brown!
- Balance the flavor: the lemon juice adds brightness, but taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
- For extra zing, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
How to Make Baked Turkey Meatballs with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake the meatballs, bringing your total time to about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined. Don’t worry, it’s okay if it gets a little messy!
3. Form Meatballs:
Now, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each meatball in your greased baking dish as you go. Try to keep them evenly spaced for even cooking.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re cooked through and have a nice golden-brown color on top.
5. Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, grab a saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells amazing. Then, stir in the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
6. Combine and Serve:
When the meatballs are done, carefully pour the lemon garlic butter sauce over them, allowing it to soak in. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top and add lemon slices for a lovely garnish.
7. Enjoy:
Serve the meatballs warm, drizzled with the sauce. They taste great with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken will work just as well in this recipe. Just be aware that ground chicken can be a bit leaner than turkey, so ensure you don’t overcook the meatballs to keep them moist and tender.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, try using crushed crackers, oats, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option. Just use the same amount and keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly depending on your substitute.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option.
Can I Freeze the Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs! To do so, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
