Name: Best Baked Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1/4 cup milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup yellow onion, grated; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for drizzling)

Golden on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, these Best Baked Turkey Meatballs are the kind of comfort food that works for both weeknight dinners and meal prep sessions. With their rich flavor, subtle herbs, and perfectly moist texture, they prove that lean turkey doesn’t have to be boring.

This recipe keeps things simple, wholesome, and flavorful. Whether you’re tucking them into sub rolls, tossing them in your favorite marinara over pasta, or enjoying them solo with a side salad, these meatballs bring a cozy satisfaction without the greasy after-feel of beef. Say hello to your new go-to meatball recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Best Baked Turkey Meatballs

Healthier twist: Made with lean ground turkey, these meatballs are lower in fat without sacrificing flavor.
No frying needed: Oven-baked to golden perfection with a hands-free cooking method.
Versatile use: Add them to spaghetti, wraps, rice bowls, or even salads.
Kid-friendly: Mild, savory, and tender—perfect for picky eaters.
Make-ahead friendly: Batch cook and freeze for easy meals later.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, gather your tools and prep your station. Having everything ready will make this recipe a breeze.

Mixing bowls: For combining your turkey mixture evenly.
Baking sheet + parchment paper: Keeps the meatballs from sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
Cookie scoop or tablespoon: Ensures uniform size for even cooking.
Oven & timer: Accuracy is key for perfectly baked meatballs.
Meat thermometer: Not essential but helpful to ensure the internal temp hits 165°F.

Each of these tools plays a small but critical role in ensuring your meatballs come out deliciously moist and evenly cooked.

Ingredients for the Best Baked Turkey Meatballs

Ground turkey: The star of the dish; lean, protein-rich, and absorbs flavor beautifully.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and provides structure.
Egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything cohesive.
Milk: Adds moisture to prevent dryness.
Garlic (minced): Provides a punch of savory aroma and depth.
Yellow onion (grated): Adds subtle sweetness and moisture.
Fresh parsley (chopped): For color and a fresh herbaceous note.
Italian seasoning: A simple way to infuse flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing flavor.
Olive oil (optional): A drizzle on top before baking adds golden color.

How To Make the Best Baked Turkey Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic, grated onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a spatula until just combined—don’t overwork it.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out equal-sized meatballs. Roll them gently between your palms and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the tops for extra golden color (optional). Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and they’re lightly browned.

Step 5: Let Them Rest

Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps them retain their juices and flavor.

How to Serve and Store These Meatballs

These baked turkey meatballs are the ultimate multitaskers:

Serve with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic pairing.
Slide into hoagie rolls with melted mozzarella for a quick sub sandwich.
Toss into a rice or grain bowl with roasted veggies and your favorite dressing.
Top a fresh salad for a protein-packed lunch.

To store: Place cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To freeze: Flash-freeze meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Store for up to 3 months.

To reheat: Bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of ground turkey should I use?

Go for lean ground turkey (93% lean) for a balance of flavor and moisture. Ultra-lean (99%) may be too dry.

Can I use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs?

Yes! Both are great substitutes for regular breadcrumbs, making these meatballs gluten-free or low-carb.

How do I keep turkey meatballs from drying out?

Add moisture-rich ingredients like milk and onion. Avoid overmixing the meat, which can lead to a tough texture.

Can I add cheese?

Absolutely! Grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella can be mixed into the turkey for extra flavor.

Are these meatballs good for meal prep?

They’re perfect for it! Make a double batch, freeze half, and use the rest for lunches or dinners all week long.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Comfort in Every Bite?

If you enjoyed these juicy baked turkey meatballs, here are a few more hearty dinner ideas worth exploring:

Try the Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for a restaurant-style indulgence.
Our Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are a quick weeknight win.
For a one-dish meal, check out the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.
Looking for bold flavor? The Bang Bang Chicken Recipe brings a spicy kick.
And if you love baked classics, the Effortless Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a must-try.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you sneak in extra cheese or serve them with a dipping sauce? Any twist is welcome!

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s swap tips and make every dinner delicious.