A Sweet and Savory Twist on Classic Meatballs
Turkey meatballs are a fantastic alternative to traditional beef meatballs, offering a leaner yet equally flavorful option. When combined with a rich honey garlic sauce, these meatballs become irresistibly sweet, savory, and slightly tangy. Perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or even as an appetizer for gatherings, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of taste and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option – Turkey is a lean protein, making these meatballs a lighter alternative to beef or pork.
- Bursting with Flavor – The honey garlic sauce creates a perfect harmony of sweetness and umami.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this dish perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile – Serve them over rice, noodles, or as a party appetizer.
- Meal-Prep Friendly – These meatballs store well and taste great even after reheating.
Ingredients
For the Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and ground ginger. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the mixture.
2. Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on a plate or tray.
3. Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
4. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Thicken the Sauce
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the sauce. Let them simmer for another 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley or sesame seeds, and serve hot over rice, noodles, or alongside roasted vegetables.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Use Different Meat – Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Baked Version – Bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 (about 20 meatballs)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze cooked meatballs (without sauce) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can shape the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes until fully cooked.
What can I serve with honey garlic turkey meatballs?
They pair well with rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works just as well with this recipe.
How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough binding ingredients (egg and breadcrumbs) and avoid over-mixing the meat mixture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure the skillet is large enough, or cook the meatballs in batches.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The honey garlic sauce is mild and sweet, making it appealing to kids.
Can I make this dish low-carb?
Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and serve with cauliflower rice.
Can I use pre-made frozen meatballs?
Yes, just cook them according to the package instructions before tossing them in the sauce.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
A cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) is the best way to achieve a glossy, thick sauce.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs are a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with a juicy, tender texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer, this recipe delivers every time. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable options, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!
Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy these juicy and flavorful Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs, a healthier twist on classic meatballs coated in a sweet-savory sauce. Perfect for meal prep, quick dinners, or as a party appetizer. Ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and ground ginger. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the Meatballs
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using your hands or a small cookie scoop. Place them on a tray.
- Cook the Meatballs
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
- Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Simmer gently.
- Thicken the Sauce
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
- Combine and Serve
- Return meatballs to the skillet, tossing to coat. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with parsley or sesame seeds. Serve over rice, noodles, or veggies.
Notes
- Add spice with red pepper flakes or Sriracha.
- Swap turkey for ground chicken or lean beef.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari for a GF option.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keywords: turkey meatballs, honey garlic sauce, healthy meatballs, easy dinner recipe, meal prep meatballs
