Description
Juicy, tender, and bursting with classic Italian flavors, these baked lean turkey meatballs are quick, wholesome, and perfect for a comforting dinner without the guilt.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) ground lean turkey (93% lean)
- ½ cup (60 g) Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup (25 g) grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) milk
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until combined.
- Add the ground lean turkey to the egg mixture and gently combine using a wooden spoon or your hands. Avoid overmixing.
- Sprinkle in the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Fold everything together just until mixed.
- Shape the mixture into even-sized meatballs about 1.5 inches (4 cm) in diameter using your hands or a scoop.
- Place the meatballs spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush olive oil over the tops.
- Bake in the oven for 20-22 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Broil for the last 2 minutes for a crispier exterior, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Notes
If the mixture is too wet, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a splash more milk. Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender. Let meatballs rest after baking to retain moisture. These meatballs freeze well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 22
Keywords: turkey meatballs, baked meatballs, Italian meatballs, lean turkey recipe, healthy dinner, easy meatballs, weeknight dinner