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If you’re looking for a flavorful and healthy meal, you’re in the right place! These Garlic Herb Turkey Meatballs are packed with taste and easy to make. I’ll guide you through the ingredients, preparation, and tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time. Get ready to impress your family and enjoy a wholesome dish that’s both satisfying and good for you. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Delight: These turkey meatballs are a leaner alternative to traditional meatballs, packed with flavor and nutrition.
- Quick & Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Herbs: The combination of garlic, parsley, oregano, and thyme brings an aromatic freshness to each bite.
- Versatile Serving Options: These meatballs can be enjoyed on their own, with marinara, or over pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Herb Turkey Meatballs
To make garlic herb turkey meatballs, you need:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
These ingredients blend well to create a tasty meatball. The turkey keeps it lean, while the herbs add flavor.
Optional Ingredients for Serving
You can add a few extras for a special touch:
– Marinara sauce (for dipping)
This sauce makes a great match with the meatballs. It adds moisture and flavor, perfect for a meal.
Nutritional Information per Serving
Each serving contains about:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 25 grams
– Fat: 10 grams
– Carbohydrates: 14 grams
– Fiber: 1 gram
These meatballs are not just tasty; they are also a healthy option. They pack protein and are low in carbs, making them a great choice for a balanced meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meatball Mixture
To start, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 pound of ground turkey, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients will create a nice base for your meatballs. Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley. For flavor, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Don’t forget to add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for seasoning. Finally, pour in 1 beaten egg to bind everything together. Mix all the ingredients gently with your hands until they are well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture. This keeps the meatballs tender.
Shaping and Searing the Meatballs
Now that your mixture is ready, shape it into meatballs. Each meatball should be about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches. Sear each meatball for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. This step adds flavor and a nice texture to the meatballs.
Baking Instructions
After searing, transfer all the meatballs back to the baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 10-15 minutes. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are cooked through. Once done, they are ready to serve. Enjoy them with marinara sauce or over a bed of spaghetti for a delicious meal.
Tips & Tricks
How to Keep Meatballs Tender
To keep your meatballs tender, avoid overmixing. When combining the turkey, breadcrumbs, and cheese, mix just until blended. Overworking the meat can make them tough. Adding moisture helps too. Use fresh parsley and a beaten egg. These add flavor and keep the meatballs juicy.
Best Cooking Methods for Meatballs
You can cook meatballs in several ways. Baking is easy and hands-off. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake until cooked through. Searing them first in a skillet gives a nice crust. Cook them in batches for even browning. Then, finish cooking them in the oven for a perfect texture.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, consider adding more herbs. Fresh basil or thyme can elevate your meatballs. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. For a savory kick, try Worcestershire sauce in the mix. If you love garlic, add an extra clove or two. Serve with marinara sauce for a classic touch.
Pro Tips
- Keep it Tender: Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to ensure they remain tender and juicy.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, let the meatball mixture rest for 30 minutes before shaping.
- Perfect Browning: Sear the meatballs on high heat to achieve a nice golden crust, enhancing the flavor.
- Check Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Variations
Alternative Herbs and Spices
You can change the flavor of your meatballs by using different herbs and spices. Try basil for a sweeter taste or rosemary for a woodsy note. You might also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Experiment with fresh dill for a bright twist or add smoked paprika for depth. Each choice brings a unique flavor, making your meatballs special.
Different Meat Options
While turkey is light and healthy, you can use other meats too. Ground chicken works well and has a similar taste. If you want a richer flavor, try ground beef or pork. You can even mix meats for a unique blend. Remember, each meat has its own cooking time, so adjust as needed to ensure they cook through.
Serving Suggestions with Sauces
Serving your meatballs with the right sauce can elevate the meal. Marinara sauce is a classic choice, adding a rich, tangy flavor. Try pesto for a fresh, herby kick or a creamy garlic sauce for something different. You could also serve them with sweet chili sauce for a fun twist. Pairing with a sauce can change the entire dish and make it more exciting.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Meatballs
To keep your leftover meatballs fresh, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you have more meatballs than you can eat, consider freezing them.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your meatballs again, reheat them gently. You can use the microwave for quick reheating. Heat them in short bursts, about 30 seconds at a time. Check to see if they are warm after each burst. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10–15 minutes.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage
Freezing is an awesome way to store meatballs for later. To freeze, first, cool them completely. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they freeze solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, you can use ground chicken. It works well in this recipe. Just follow the same steps. Ground chicken has a lighter flavor. The meatballs will still be tasty and moist.
How do I know when meatballs are fully cooked?
Check the internal temperature of the meatballs. Use a meat thermometer. They should reach 165°F (75°C). The meatballs will feel firm when cooked. If they look brown inside, they are ready to eat.
What sides pair well with garlic herb turkey meatballs?
Many sides go well with these meatballs. Here are some great options:
– Spaghetti: Classic pairing with marinara sauce.
– Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition.
– Salad: A fresh side brings crunch and balance.
– Rice: Fluffy rice soaks up the sauce nicely.
– Garlic bread: Perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
These sides make your meal more filling and fun!
In this article, we covered how to make delicious garlic herb turkey meatballs. You learned about the main and optional ingredients, plus their nutrition facts. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing, shaping, and baking the meatballs. Tips on keeping them tender and flavorful will ensure great results. Variations offer new flavors and meats to try. Lastly, we discussed how to store and reheat them for later use. Try these meatballs for a meal the whole family will enjoy. Simple steps lead to tasty result
Garlic Herb Turkey Meatballs
Try these delicious Garlic Herb Turkey Meatballs for a healthy turkey meatball recipe your family will love! Made with ground turkey and Parmesan cheese, these turkey meatballs with marinara sauce are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, they can be served on a platter or with spaghetti. Save this recipe for a nutritious and satisfying meal! #GarlicHerbTurkeyMeatballs #HealthyRecipe #GroundTurkeyMeatballs #ParmesanCheeseMeatballs
1 pound ground turkey
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Optional: Marinara sauce (for serving)
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
Pour in the beaten egg and mix all the ingredients together with your hands until well combined. Be sure not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches (if necessary) and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Once all the meatballs are seared, transfer them back to the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
If desired, serve the meatballs with marinara sauce on the side for dipping or over a bed of spaghetti.
Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4-6
- Presentation Tips: Serve the meatballs on a decorative platter, garnished with additional chopped parsley and a small bowl of marinara for dipping. For a complete meal, plate with a side of leafy greens or steamed vegetables.
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