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The best Turkey Meatballs! So flavorful and delicious! Filled with parmesan, panko, eggs and more and a secret ingredient!
Print Recipe

The Best Turkey Meatballs

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Appetizer or Main
Keyword: meatballs, turkey meatballs
Servings: 4
Author: hipfoodiemom

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. lean ground turkey
  • 1 large shallot or a small onion* chopped fine
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped fine
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko or breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
  • salt and pepper
  • avocado or olive oil if pan frying
  • avocado spray if baking; optional

Instructions

To make the meatballs:

  • Using a large mixing bowl, place everything together in your bowl from the ground turkey to the salt and pepper, and use your hands to combine. No need to over mix, just mix until everything comes together. Use your hands or a small cookie scoop** to form and shape the meatballs. Set aside.

To pan fry the meatballs:

  • Using a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat, add about 1 to 2 tablespoons of avocado oil (depending on how many meatballs you are cooking at a time). Add in the turkey meatballs and cook on each side until golden brown and cooked through completely. Meatballs must reach a minimum internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety. As you are cooking, if you see that the meatballs are browning too fast, turn the heat down to medium low.
  • I've read that in order to try and get really round meatballs, instead of flipping your meatballs, you lift the pan and Shake the meatballs in the pan as they cook; don't flip them. This will give you that lovely round meatball shape with a crispy, browned exterior. 
  • When finished, remove the meatballs from your pan onto a paper-towel lined plate.

To bake the meatballs:

  • Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
    I find that if you use an oven safe wire rack placed into a baking sheet, this helps to retain a more round meatball. So, prep your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place an oven safe wire rack on top. If you don't have one, that's fine!
  • Place your meatballs on top and spray with some avocado oil spray (completely optional; I think this helps with browning the meatballs a little more and helps the meatballs not to stick to the rack). Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until cooked through and the meatballs register 160°F.
  • Enjoy in a sandwich, salad, soup, with some pasta or just on their own!

Notes

*about a 1/4 cup finely diced 
**I have these cookie scoops. These are a great alternative and are cheaper.