Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs Recipe

These honey garlic baked turkey meatballs are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and wholesome. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe combines the tender juiciness of turkey with a flavorful honey garlic glaze, all while being baked for a healthier touch.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Healthier Choice: Turkey is a leaner alternative to beef or pork, making this recipe lower in fat yet still deliciously satisfying.
- Balanced Flavors: Combining honey’s sweetness and garlic’s savory kick creates a mouthwatering glaze.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, over a bed of rice, or in a sandwich for a hearty meal.
Ingredients Breakdown
Below is a detailed table of ingredients along with substitution options and their roles in the recipe:
Ingredient | Measurement | Substitutions/Notes |
---|---|---|
Ground Turkey | 1 lb | Substitute with chicken or beef for a flavor variation. |
Panko Breadcrumbs | ½ cup | Use almond flour for a gluten-free option. |
Egg | 1 large | Replace with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water). |
Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Use garlic powder (1 tsp) if fresh garlic isn’t available. |
Soy Sauce | 3 tbsp | Opt for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version. |
Honey | 2 tbsp | Swap with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly glaze. |
Sesame Oil | 1 tbsp | Olive oil can work as an alternative, though flavor will differ. |
Green Onion (chopped) | 2 stalks | Garnish for added freshness; optional. |
Salt and Pepper | To taste | Enhance the turkey’s natural flavor profile. |
Step-by-Step Instructions

Photo Credit: cookincanuck
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients
- Combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Shape and Arrange the Meatballs
- Using a spoon or small scoop, portion the mixture into evenly sized-balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter). This ensures uniform cooking.
- Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
4. Bake the Meatballs
- Place the meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until they are fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
While the meatballs bake, prepare the glaze for that irresistible finishing touch.
Ingredients for the Glaze:
Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
---|---|---|
Soy Sauce | ¼ cup | Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free. |
Honey | 2 tbsp | Maple syrup or agave nectar works too. |
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Adjust to taste. |
Sesame Oil | 1 tbsp | Adds a nutty depth of flavor. |
Cornstarch | 1 tsp | For thickening the glaze. |
Water | 2 tbsp | Helps dissolve cornstarch for a smooth glaze. |
5. Prepare the Glaze
To prepare the glaze, start by combining soy sauce, honey, garlic, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water in a small saucepan. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it begins to bubble and thicken, about 2–3 minutes.
Once the glaze has reached the desired consistency, taste it and adjust the flavor by adding more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for additional saltiness, depending on your preference.
6. Coat the Meatballs
- Once the meatballs are out of the oven, transfer them to a large bowl.
- Pour the glaze over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (4 meatballs with glaze):
Nutrient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Calories | 260 kcal | May vary based on specific ingredients used. |
Protein | 18g | Lean turkey offers a protein-rich option. |
Carbohydrates | 14g | Reduce by using low-carb glaze substitutes. |
Fats | 11g | Adjust by using leaner turkey or alternative oils. |
Sodium | 720mg | Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content. |
Conclusion
These honey garlic baked turkey meatballs are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional meatball recipes. With their tender texture, sweet-savory glaze, and versatile serving options, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is an easy yet impressive choice.