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Juicy Turkey Meatballs

These tender turkey meatballs are crafted with a gentle hand, combining ground turkey with breadcrumbs, milk, herbs, and garlic to create a moist, flavorful bite. They are browned in a skillet for a golden exterior, then finished in the oven to ensure they stay juicy and hold their shape. The final result is a batch of beautifully plump, slightly crispy meatballs with a tender interior, perfect for serving over pasta or with a side of sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground turkey preferably a mix of white and dark meat for juiciness
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs day-old white bread pulsed into coarse crumbs or panko
  • 1/4 cup whole milk helps keep the mixture moist and tender
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped, or dry herbs if fresh unavailable
  • 2 cloves garlic minced fresh garlic
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for browning

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet or dish
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cooking tongs

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground turkey with breadcrumbs, milk, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and the beaten egg. Use your hands or a spoon to fold everything together just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meat tender.
  2. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, then give it a gentle fold. Taste a small amount of the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into uniform meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray as you go.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add two tablespoons of olive oil. Once shimmering, carefully add the meatballs, not overcrowding the pan. Brown them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes, until they develop a golden exterior and a slight sizzle.
  5. Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet or dish and place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Roast for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and are firm to the touch.
  6. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring they stay moist and tender.
  7. Serve the juicy turkey meatballs with your favorite sauce, over pasta, or on their own garnished with extra herbs. Enjoy the tender, flavorful bites with a crispy exterior and moist interior.