These Thai Turkey Meatballs are juicy, tender, and absolutely loaded with flavor. They simmer in a creamy, slightly spicy coconut-peanut sauce that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re serving them over rice, noodles, or fresh greens, this dish brings restaurant-quality taste straight to your home kitchen.
Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even entertaining guests—these meatballs are healthy, bold, and beautifully balanced.
Craving something sweet after this savory dish? Try our easy homemade cookie recipes for the perfect dessert pairing!
Cooking Time & Temperature: Quick and Efficient!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: About 35 minutes
- Oven Temp (if baking): 400°F (200°C)
- Internal Meatball Temp: 165°F (74°C) for doneness
Must-Have Equipment for Best Results
To get these meatballs just right, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowl (for combining ingredients)
- Baking sheet or skillet (depending on your cooking method)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Parchment paper (if baking)
- Nonstick pan or cast-iron skillet (for stove method)
- Meat thermometer (to check doneness precisely)
Ingredients You’ll Need (And Why They Matter)
Each ingredient plays a key role in creating bold flavor and perfect texture:
- 1 lb ground turkey – lean but flavorful, and holds spices well
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – adds deep aroma and richness
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated – brings warmth and depth
- 2 green onions, chopped – fresh, mild bite
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped – brightens everything up
- 1 egg – binds the meatballs
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs – keeps them moist and tender
- 1 tbsp soy sauce – umami and salt
- 1 tsp fish sauce – optional but adds authentic Thai flavor
- 1 tbsp red curry paste – the heart of the Thai flavor
- For the Sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 tsp red curry paste
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- Juice of ½ lime (optional)
The Full Recipe: Step-by-Step Simplicity
Let’s walk through it—no stress, just flavor!
Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, garlic, ginger, green onions, cilantro, soy sauce, fish sauce, egg, red curry paste, and breadcrumbs. Gently mix until just combined.
Step 2: Roll and Chill
Form the mixture into meatballs about 1½ inches wide. Place on a plate or lined tray. Chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to help them hold shape.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Option A: Pan-fry in a skillet over medium heat until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 8–10 minutes).
Option B: Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes on a parchment-lined tray.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet (or saucepan), whisk together coconut milk, peanut butter, red curry paste, soy sauce, and lime juice. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thick.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let everything simmer together for a few minutes. Spoon over rice or noodles, sprinkle with extra cilantro, and enjoy!
How to Serve Thai Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs shine in many settings:
- Over jasmine or coconut rice
- On rice noodles for a hearty bowl
- Alongside sautéed veggies or a cucumber salad
- In lettuce wraps with chopped peanuts and herbs
- With crusty bread to soak up the sauce (fusion twist!)
Cooking Alternatives: Oven & Air Fryer Options
Looking for flexibility? Try these methods:
- Oven: Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes on a parchment-lined tray until golden and cooked through.
- Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. Shake halfway through to ensure even browning.
Flavor Variations to Try
Want to change it up? Here are fun twists:
- Use ground chicken or pork instead of turkey
- Add chopped basil or mint for fresh herbal notes
- Make it sweeter with a drizzle of honey in the sauce
- Crank up the spice with extra chili flakes or sriracha
- Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a nuttier twist
Storage & Freezing Tips
Keep your meatballs fresh and flavorful:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
- Freezer (Uncooked): Freeze meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months
- Freezer (Cooked): Freeze with sauce in portions; thaw overnight and reheat gently
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of coconut milk or microwave in short intervals
Why You’ll Love These Thai Turkey Meatballs
- Packed with bold, savory, and creamy flavors
- Easy enough for a beginner, delicious enough for guests
- Light and lean without losing comfort-food appeal
- Perfect for meal prep or freezer-friendly meals
- Totally flexible—make it spicy, sweet, low-carb, or dairy-free
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the meatballs and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to cook.
What if I don’t have fish sauce?
No worries—add extra soy sauce and a little lime juice for that salty-sour balance.
Are they very spicy?
Not too spicy! You can adjust the curry paste to control the heat.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. These freeze beautifully, so make a big batch!
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes! Almond butter gives a slightly different flavor but works great in the sauce.