Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs

A Flavor-Packed Twist on a Classic

Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish. These juicy, lean turkey meatballs are baked to perfection and coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze made with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Whether served over rice, noodles, or as a party snack, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a hit.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative – Made with lean ground turkey, these meatballs are lower in fat while remaining juicy and flavorful.
• Incredible Flavor – A well-balanced glaze of soy sauce, honey, and sesame adds depth and richness.
• Versatile – Perfect as an appetizer, served over rice, or in a stir-fry.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together in under an hour.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (slurry)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Red pepper flakes

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
3. Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until fully cooked and slightly golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

1. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Coat the Meatballs

1. Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl.
2. Pour the prepared glaze over the meatballs and gently toss to coat evenly.

Step 4: Serve

• Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and red pepper flakes if desired.
• Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or as a party appetizer with toothpicks.

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Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add sriracha or chili paste to the glaze for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free panko and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Different Protein – Substitute ground chicken, pork, or even beef for a different taste.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice.

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4 (makes about 20 meatballs)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Freeze cooked, unglazed meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to keep them moist. Alternatively, microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep turkey meatballs from drying out?

Use breadcrumbs and an egg to keep them moist. Avoid overcooking, as turkey is lean and can dry out quickly.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and bake the meatballs ahead of time. Reheat them in the glaze before serving.

What’s the best way to roll uniform meatballs?

Use a cookie scoop or wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.

Can I pan-fry these meatballs instead of baking them?

Yes, cook them in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil until browned and cooked through.

Is there a substitute for hoisin sauce?

You can use a mix of soy sauce, honey, and a little peanut butter or molasses for a similar effect.

What side dishes go well with Asian glazed turkey meatballs?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad pair well with these meatballs.

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or beef will work, though cooking times may slightly vary.

How do I thicken the glaze without cornstarch?

Arrowroot powder or a reduction (simmering longer) can work as alternatives.

Can I make these meatballs spicier?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili garlic sauce to the glaze.

Are these meatballs good for meal prep?

Yes! They store well and can be paired with different sides throughout the week.

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Conclusion

Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, protein-packed meal with a delicious sweet and savory sauce. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, they’re easy to make, full of umami goodness, and perfect for any occasion. Try them today and bring a touch of Asian-inspired flair to your kitchen!

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