Description
These Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs are a delicious and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Made with lean ground turkey and flavored with a blend of herbs, garlic, and a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce, they are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Cooked on the stovetop to a golden brown and simmered in the sauce, they offer a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Honey Garlic Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
For Cooking and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix these ingredients gently to start forming the base of your meatballs.
- Add wet ingredients and seasonings: Crack the egg into the bowl with the meat mixture. Add the soy sauce, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Mix gently until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs, aiming for about 20 meatballs in total. Try to make each meatball as uniform in size as possible for even cooking.
- Cook the meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each batch for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
- Prepare the honey garlic sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, whisk together the honey, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until smooth and combined. This sauce will add a sweet and tangy glaze to the meatballs.
- Coat the meatballs with sauce: Reduce the heat to low once all meatballs are cooked and returned to the skillet. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the meatballs and gently toss or stir to coat them evenly. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Garnish the glazed meatballs with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, herby finish. Serve immediately, perfect alongside rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- For best results, use lean ground turkey to keep the meatballs moist but healthy.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the meatballs to ensure they brown evenly.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce.
- The meatballs can be made ahead and reheated in the sauce over low heat.
- These meatballs pair well with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
