Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, these garlic butter turkey meatballs are an excellent choice. Made with ground turkey and a blend of herbs and spices, they are a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs while still delivering on taste. Paired with a luscious garlic butter sauce, these meatballs are perfect for any occasion, whether served as an appetizer or over pasta for a main course.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Meatballs:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Juice of 1/2 lemon
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Approximately 4 servings
Directions
1. **Prepare the Meatballs:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, chopped onion, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
– Form the mixture into meatballs, each about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
2. **Cook the Meatballs:**
– In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
– Add the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
– Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
3. **Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:**
– In the same skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
– Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
– Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
– Stir in the juice of half a lemon and the chopped fresh parsley.
4. **Combine and Serve:**
– Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat with the garlic butter sauce.
– Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
– Serve the garlic butter meatballs warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, chopped onion, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Form the mixture into meatballs, each about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir in the juice of half a lemon and the chopped fresh parsley.
Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat with the garlic butter sauce. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve the garlic butter meatballs warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Meatball Size:
Ensure that the meatballs are consistent in size for even cooking.
Browning the Meatballs:
If necessary, cook the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding for better browning.
Fresh Ingredients:
Using fresh parsley and freshly minced garlic will enhance the flavor of the sauce significantly.
Serving Suggestions:
These meatballs pair well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
Cook techniques
Mixing the Meatball Ingredients
Carefully combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, onions, cheese, and seasonings until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Forming Meatballs
When forming meatballs, use your hands to shape them into uniform balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter for consistent cooking.
Browning Meatballs
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, placing the meatballs in a single layer without overcrowding. Turn occasionally to ensure even browning on all sides, which enhances flavor and presentation.
Sautéing Garlic
To obtain a fragrant garlic flavor, sauté minced garlic in melted butter over medium heat for about one minute, avoiding burning to prevent bitterness.
Simmering in Sauce
After adding the meatballs back into the skillet with the garlic sauce, allow them to simmer for 2-3 minutes, enabling them to absorb extra flavor from the garlic butter sauce.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or pork according to your preference.
What can I serve with garlic butter meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
How can I store leftover meatballs?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Form and cook them when ready to serve for a quick meal.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The meatballs are cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) or when they are no longer pink in the center.
Conclusion
The combination of turkey meatballs with garlic butter sauce creates a delightful and satisfying dish that balances flavors and textures perfectly. The freshness of the herbs and the richness of the butter enhance the meatballs, making them a versatile option for any meal. They can be served with pasta, rice, or even on their own as an appetizer. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve with Spaghetti
Pair these meatballs with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal. The garlic butter sauce adds a unique twist to the traditional dish.
Meatball Sub Sandwiches
Create delicious meatball subs by placing the meatballs in a toasted hoagie roll, topping with marinara sauce, and sprinkling with extra Parmesan cheese.
Meatballs in a Salad
Add these garlic butter meatballs to a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a hearty and healthy option.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix the cooked meatballs with sautéed vegetables and rice, then stuff into bell peppers and bake until the peppers are tender.
Pasta Bake
Combine the meatballs with cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly for an easy and comforting pasta bake.
Creamy Meatball Stroganoff
Make a creamy sauce with sour cream and serve the meatballs over egg noodles for a comforting stroganoff dish.
