– **Title**: Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 large egg
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Green onions, sliced (for garnish, optional)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the honey garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is simmering, then lower the heat and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and toss them in the honey garlic sauce until well coated.
7. Serve the meatballs on a platter, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the main protein in the meatballs. If you prefer something leaner or tastier, you can substitute chicken or lean beef. Sometimes, a mix of turkey and pork creates a nice balance.
Bread Crumbs: I used plain bread crumbs for a subtle flavor, but seasoned ones add an extra kick. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. Feel free to switch it out for Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Honey: This gives a natural sweetness and helps build a sticky sauce. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar could work well.
Soy Sauce: It enhances the savory profile. Use tamari for a gluten-free version, or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.
How Do I Prevent Overmixing the Meatball Mixture?
Mixing too much can make your meatballs tough. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start by adding all ingredients into a large bowl.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—no need to get everything perfectly blended.
- Once you’ve combined the ingredients, let them rest for a few minutes before shaping them. This helps retain moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Shape Meatballs?
Shaping meatballs shouldn’t be a hassle! Here are some easy steps:
- Use a scoop or a spoon to take even portions of the mixture.
- Roll them gently between your palms to form a round shape. Keep them about 1 inch wide for even cooking.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
By following these tips, you’ll get perfectly tender meatballs every time!
How to Make Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s just combined—try not to overmix, or your meatballs might become tough!
3. Form the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1 inch in diameter. Once you’ve formed the meatballs, gently place them on the prepared baking sheet, giving them some space in between.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for around 15-20 minutes. They should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked—check them with a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce:
While the meatballs bake, grab a small saucepan and combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir it occasionally to keep it from sticking.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and gently toss them in the honey garlic sauce until they are well coated and glistening.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the meatballs in a dish, drizzle any remaining sauce on top, and garnish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley for a lovely touch. Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for turkey in this recipe, providing a similar texture and flavor. Just ensure the cooking time remains the same; the meatballs should still bake for 15-20 minutes until they’re cooked through.
What Can I Use Instead of Bread Crumbs?
If you don’t have bread crumbs on hand, crushed crackers or oatmeal can work well as a substitute. If you prefer gluten-free options, you can use gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the honey garlic sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove before tossing with the meatballs for serving. This can save time on busy weeknights!
