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Juicy baked turkey meatballs served on a rustic plate with fresh herbs and lemon.

Quick & Healthy Turkey Meatball Recipe You’ll Absolutely Love!

This quick and healthy turkey meatball recipe is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Whether you bake them, air fry them, or add a Greek twist with herbs and feta, these lean, protein-packed meatballs are simple to make, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 450 g ground turkey (93% lean preferred)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs use panko or gluten-free if needed
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons milk or any plant-based milk
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional; use nutritional yeast for dairy-free
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup grated onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing or frying
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, for Greek-style flavor
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese optional, for Greek variation
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes optional, for a spicy kick

Instructions
 

Preheat & Prepare:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil the air fryer basket.

Mix Ingredients:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Add ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, and oregano. Mix gently until combined—don’t overmix.

Add Flavor Variations (Optional):

  • For Greek turkey meatballs, stir in feta, lemon zest, and extra oregano.
  • For spicy version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Shape the Meatballs:

  • Use a scoop or spoon to form 1.5-inch balls. Place evenly spaced on the prepared sheet or in the air fryer basket.

Cook the Meatballs:

  • Oven Method: Bake for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Air Fryer Method: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking once halfway through.

Serve & Enjoy:

  • Let meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with marinara and spaghetti, or with tzatziki and Greek salad.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture; it can make the texture tough.
  • To meal prep: freeze raw or cooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the air fryer for 4–5 minutes.
  • Gluten-free option: use almond flour or GF breadcrumbs.
  • Dairy-free option: omit Parmesan/feta or replace with nutritional yeast.