Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs Recipe | Sweet, Savory & Delicious
I have to tell you, the first time I made these honey garlic turkey meatballs recipe, my kitchen smelled like a sweet-savory dream. I couldn’t wait to taste them, and my family practically devoured the entire batch in minutes. What I love most is how juicy and tender the turkey turns out, while the honey garlic glaze adds that perfect hint of sweetness and flavor.
I’m excited to share this recipe with you because it’s simple, healthy, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for an easy dinner or appetizer, these meatballs are it! You can also enjoy similar comfort flavors in the Blackened Fish and Cheese Grits recipe for a different protein twist.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish perfect every time:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey – I use 93% lean for juicier meatballs; extra lean can get too dry.
- ½ yellow onion, grated – Grating the onion ensures flavor without chunky bites.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that authentic, rich taste.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs – Panko works great for light, fluffy meatballs; gluten-free versions are fine too.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the mixture so meatballs don’t fall apart.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds umami; use low-sodium if preferred.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – A tiny tang enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder – Optional, adds a subtle warmth.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin – Gives depth to the seasoning.
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a smoky undertone.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances flavors.
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adjust if you like heat.
- 2 tablespoons honey – For that sticky, sweet glaze that everyone loves.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Balances the sweetness in the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for glaze) – Boosts flavor in the final coating.
Note: several servings
Variations
You can tweak this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- For dairy-free, simply stick to standard ingredients; no cheese is needed.
- Make it sugar-free by substituting honey with a natural sweetener like monk fruit syrup.
- Add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh, bright flavor.
- Swap turkey for chicken or beef if you prefer a different protein base, or try it with pasta inspired by the Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta Recipe for a hearty meal.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 13 minutes
- Cooking Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- Grater – To grate onion finely for the meat mixture.
- Baking sheet – For evenly baking meatballs.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and easy cleanup.
- Cookie scoop – Helps portion meatballs evenly.
- Small bowl – For mixing the honey garlic glaze.
How to Make Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by grating the onion and mincing the garlic. I like to mix these together with the ground turkey in a large bowl so the flavors meld. Make sure everything is evenly combined for consistent taste.
Mix the Meatball Mixture
Add breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and spices to the turkey mixture. I gently fold everything together with my hands to avoid overworking the meat, which keeps the meatballs tender.
Shape the Meatballs
Using a cookie scoop, portion the mixture and roll into balls between your palms. I find this method quick and ensures all meatballs are the same size, so they cook evenly.
Bake the Meatballs
Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-17 minutes until cooked through. I like to brush them with the honey garlic glaze during the last few minutes for a glossy finish.
Make the Glaze
Mix honey, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce in a small bowl. I brush this mixture over the meatballs once they come out of the oven, letting it coat them perfectly.
Serve or Chill
Serve warm over rice or noodles, or chill for later use. I love storing leftovers in an airtight container for a quick dinner the next day.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
- I always use 93% lean turkey; it’s juicier than extra lean.
- Grating the onion prevents chunks but keeps flavor intact.
- Let the meatballs rest a few minutes after baking; it helps them firm up.
- I sometimes add a pinch of brown sugar to the glaze for a richer sweetness.
- Rolling meatballs with a cookie scoop makes portioning so much faster and easier.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs Recipe
These meatballs are versatile! Serve them over steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. I like garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a professional touch. They also work beautifully on skewers for a fun appetizer presentation.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick snapshot per serving:
- Calories: 239 kcal – Perfectly portioned for a healthy dinner.
- Protein: 21g – A good source of lean protein.
- Carbohydrates: 12g – Mostly from breadcrumbs and glaze.
- Fat: 10g – Balanced with healthy turkey fat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
Keep meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to have them ready for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze beautifully; store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. I separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals. I always add a little extra glaze when reheating to keep them moist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why these meatballs quickly became a family favorite:
- Quick and easy to prepare – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- Juicy and flavorful – Lean turkey stays tender, while spices and glaze elevate the taste.
- Versatile – Works as a main dish, appetizer, or party snack.
- Customizable – Swap proteins, herbs, or make it gluten/dairy-free.
- Crowd-pleaser – Sweet, garlicky, and irresistible for kids and adults alike.
These honey garlic turkey meatballs are a simple, delicious way to make weeknight dinners or appetizers extra special. The combination of tender turkey and sweet-savory glaze always hits the spot, and I promise you’ll want to make them again and again.
Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by grating the onion and mincing the garlic. I like to mix these together with the ground turkey in a large bowl so the flavors meld. Make sure everything is evenly combined for consistent taste.
- Add breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and spices to the turkey mixture. I gently fold everything together with my hands to avoid overworking the meat, which keeps the meatballs tender.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion the mixture and roll into balls between your palms. I find this method quick and ensures all meatballs are the same size, so they cook evenly.
- Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-17 minutes until cooked through. I like to brush them with the honey garlic glaze during the last few minutes for a glossy finish.
- Mix honey, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce in a small bowl. I brush this mixture over the meatballs once they come out of the oven, letting it coat them perfectly.
- Serve warm over rice or noodles, or chill for later use. I love storing leftovers in an airtight container for a quick dinner the next day.
Notes
- I always use 93% lean turkey; it’s juicier than extra lean.
- Grating the onion prevents chunks but keeps flavor intact.
- Let the meatballs rest a few minutes after baking; it helps them firm up.
- I sometimes add a pinch of brown sugar to the glaze for a richer sweetness.
- Rolling meatballs with a cookie scoop makes portioning so much faster and easier.