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Baked Ground Turkey Meatballs

Baked Ground Turkey Meatballs

These Baked Ground Turkey Meatballs are a wholesome, flavorful, and healthier alternative to classic meatballs. Juicy and tender, packed with fresh herbs and spices, they bake quickly in under 30 minutes without frying, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Lean ground turkey forms the base, combined with Parmesan, garlic, and Italian seasoning for a comforting and kid-friendly dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This simple prep ensures perfect baking results without extra cleanup.
  2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, chopped fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the mixture to maintain tenderness.
  3. Shape the Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form evenly sized meatballs, about one to one and a half inches in diameter. Place them directly on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to allow even cooking and browning on all sides.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Cooked Through: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for approximately 18-22 minutes. They should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, let the meatballs rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for the juiciest bite.

Notes

  • Use moisture wisely by adding a teaspoon of olive oil or a splash of milk to enhance tenderness.
  • Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
  • Use a scoop to ensure uniform size and even cooking.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked meatballs.
  • Let meatballs rest after baking to retain juices and improve texture.

Nutrition

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