Introduction
Looking for a healthy and tasty twist on classic meatballs? Try Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs! These meatballs are juicy, full of flavor, and topped with a sweet and sticky glaze that makes them extra special. They’re made with lean ground turkey, which is healthier than beef, and packed with yummy Asian-inspired ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey.
This recipe is great for dinner, meal prep, or even a fun party snack. You can serve them with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies. And the best part? They’re super easy to make! Let’s get started on making these delicious little bites.
Ingredients – Turkey Meatballs
Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make the turkey meatballs and the glaze:
For the Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Glaze:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
Step by Step Process – Turkey Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until just combined. Don’t overmix, or the meatballs might turn out tough.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Scoop out small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into balls. Each one should be about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. You can cut one open to check. The inside should not be pink.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
While the meatballs are baking, let’s make the tasty glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Heat it over medium heat and stir until it starts to bubble.
Now, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl and slowly pour it into the saucepan. Stir well. The glaze will get thicker in about 1–2 minutes. Turn off the heat once it’s nice and shiny.
Step 6: Coat the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are done baking, place them in a bowl. Pour the glaze over the meatballs and gently toss until they’re all coated. You can also put the meatballs in the glaze pan and stir for a minute or two to warm them up.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Place the glazed meatballs on a plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a little extra flavor and crunch. Serve with rice, noodles, or steamed broccoli for a full meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 24g |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe. It has a similar taste and texture.
Q2: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in a pan or microwave before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze them?
Yes. After baking, let the meatballs cool down. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or on the stove.
Q4: What can I serve with these meatballs?
They go great with:
- White or brown rice
- Stir-fried noodles
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- A side salad
Q5: How can I make the glaze less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the honey and add a splash more soy sauce or vinegar.
Final Thoughts
Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a perfect mix of healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, a weekend lunch, or just meal prepping for the week, these meatballs are a great choice. The sweet and tangy glaze adds a delicious touch that kids and adults will love.
With simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your kitchen. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it again and again! So, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and make something truly yummy? Give these Asian Glazed Turkey Meatballs a try—you won’t be disappointed!
