How to make teriyaki turkey meatballs from scratch?

It's easier than you think! Simply mix ground turkey with panko, egg, and aromatics, form into balls, and bake. The homemade teriyaki sauce is just a quick simmer of soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and a few other pantry staples. The recipe above walks you through every step.

What goes well with teriyaki turkey meatballs for dinner?

They are wonderfully versatile! Serve them over steamed rice or quinoa, with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple green salad. They also make a fantastic appetizer for a party. For a sweet finish, my Healthy Chocolate Muffins are a perfect match.

Can you bake teriyaki turkey meatballs instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Baking is my preferred method for these healthy turkey meatballs. It's hands-off, less messy, and results in a evenly cooked, lightly browned meatball without any added oil from frying.

How do you keep turkey meatballs from falling apart?

The key is using a good binder. The combination of the egg and panko breadcrumbs in this recipe acts as a glue. Also, be sure not to overhandle the mixture when forming the balls, as this can make them dense.

What is a good glaze for turkey meatballs?

This homemade teriyaki glaze is my top choice! It's the perfect balance of sweet and savory. For a different twist, a sweet and sour sauce or a spicy gochujang glaze would also be delicious on these baked turkey meatballs.

Are turkey meatballs healthier than beef meatballs?

Generally, yes. Ground turkey, especially lean ground turkey, is typically lower in saturated fat than ground beef. This makes these teriyaki turkey meatballs a heart-healthier choice while still being satisfying and full of flavor.

How long do you cook turkey meatballs in the oven?

At 400°F (200°C), your meatballs should be perfectly cooked in 15 to 18 minutes. The best way to check is with a meat thermometer; they are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs in meatballs?

There are several great alternatives! You can use rolled oats, crushed crackers, almond flour, or even cooked rice. For a recipe that uses oats as a base, take a look at my Oatmeal Protein Muffins for inspiration.

Simple teriyaki turkey meatballs promise velvety happiness

Teriyaki turkey meatballs

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These teriyaki turkey meatballs are tender, savory, and coated in a sweet homemade teriyaki glaze, making them a comforting yet healthy option for an easy weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb lean ground turkey
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, ginger, and half of the green onions.
Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned.
While the meatballs bake, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, and cornstarch in a small saucepan.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the sesame oil.
Toss the baked meatballs in the warm teriyaki sauce and garnish with the remaining green onions before serving.

Notes

Mix the meatball ingredients gently to keep the meatballs tender.
These meatballs freeze well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Author: Maisie