Name: Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground turkey; 1 cup grated carrot (from 1-2 medium carrots); 1 cup grated zucchini (from 1 small zucchini); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 Tablespoons ketchup; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 8 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a wholesome, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner idea, this Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These tender, juicy meatballs pack in the goodness of ground turkey along with vibrant veggies like carrot and zucchini, making every bite a satisfying balance of taste and nutrition. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, they offer a comforting, healthier twist on a classic favorite that’s as family-friendly as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round metal bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with several layers of ingredients. On the left side, there is pink raw ground meat, next to a cracked yellow egg yolk at the bottom left edge. Moving clockwise, there is a thick layer of fine light-colored crumbs mixed with some spices, then thin orange carrot shreds on top. To the right, there are thin green zucchini shreds. A silver fork rests inside the bowl on the right side, partly in the crumbs and vegetables. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays an essential role. From moisture and flavor to texture and color, these are the fundamentals that create meatballs you’ll want to make again and again.

1 pound lean ground turkey: The wholesome base providing protein and a mild flavor that absorbs spices wonderfully.
1 cup grated carrot: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color, plus extra moisture without overpowering.
1 cup grated zucchini: Sneaks in veggie goodness and moisture, keeping the meatballs tender.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together while keeping the texture light and not dense.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, umami punch that elevates the meatball flavor.
2 Tablespoons ketchup: Adds subtle tanginess and moisture to keep the meatballs juicy.
1 large egg: Acts as the perfect binder to hold all ingredients together smoothly.
2 teaspoons onion powder: Lends mild savory depth without the hassle of chopping fresh onions.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A classic seasoning that fills out the flavor profile beautifully.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural tastes and balances the seasonings.
1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper: Provides just the right touch of warmth and subtle heat.

How to Make Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready to go when your meatballs are formed. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat — this simple prep step ensures cleanup is a breeze and helps the meatballs bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the lean ground turkey with grated carrot, grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, ketchup, egg, and all the seasonings. Use a fork, spatula, or your hands to gently mix everything together just until evenly combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so keep it light and tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out heaping tablespoons of the mixture. To get perfectly smooth meatballs, gently roll each portion between your palms. A quick tip: dampen your hands slightly to prevent sticking and make rolling easier. Place each meatball on the baking sheet, leaving a little space so they bake evenly without sticking together.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfect

Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes. The key to juiciness is ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. For a touch of golden, slightly crispy tops, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes — but watch closely to avoid burning. Once done, serve right away or let them cool before storing.

How to Serve Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe

A white bowl with five brown, round meatballs placed on a bed of light yellow couscous. Around the meatballs, there are small bright red grape tomatoes, dark purple olives, light green cucumber slices, and green leafy arugula on opposite sides. Bright yellow chopped bell peppers sit near the top edge, and a smooth dollop of beige hummus is placed next to the olives. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with two small white bowls containing olives and cherry tomatoes partially visible around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor that complements the savory meatballs wonderfully. A dusting of extra Parmesan can also add a deliciously cheesy finish that your guests will love.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a cozy meal, serve them over spaghetti or zucchini noodles with marinara sauce. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, they’re fantastic alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad offering both texture and contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress dinner guests or please picky eaters? Use the baked turkey meatballs in sliders with small buns and your favorite condiments. Or load them up into a warm pita with tzatziki and crunchy cucumber for a Mediterranean-inspired twist. The possibilities are endless and fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They remain juicy and flavorful for up to four days, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

Freezing

For longer storage, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months, ready to be thawed when you need a convenient meal.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the meatballs in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, covering to maintain moisture. They’re just as tasty the second time around!

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and will yield a similarly tender and mild-flavored meatball. Just be mindful of the fat content to keep them moist.

Do I have to grate the vegetables?

Grating the carrot and zucchini helps distribute moisture evenly and keeps the meatballs tender. If you prefer, you can finely chop or process them, but grating usually gives the best texture.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

If you’re avoiding gluten or don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers or oats make excellent binding alternatives and add a nice texture.

Can I bake these meatballs without cheese?

Yes, you can leave out the Parmesan, though it does enhance flavor and adds a hint of saltiness. If you omit it, consider adding a pinch more salt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast as a substitute.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; 165 degrees Fahrenheit means they’re cooked through. The meatballs should feel firm but juicy when pressed gently.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, a simple yet utterly delicious Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With wholesome ingredients and a straightforward process, this dish proves that homemade doesn’t have to be complicated. I hope you’ll try making these meatballs soon and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!

Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need