Ina Garten Turkey Meatballs Recipe

This Ina Garten Turkey Meatballs Recipe is a moist and flavorful dish, which includes ground turkey and Parmesan cheese. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just 55 minutes.

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Ina Garten Turkey Meatballs Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground turkey (preferably dark meat for moisture)
• 1 cup fresh white bread crumbs (about 3 slices of bread)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ¾ cup warm milk
• Olive oil, for baking
• 1 jar (or 4 cups) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Optional garnish: fresh basil, more Parmesan

How To Make Ina Garten Turkey Meatballs

1. Preheat the oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it.
2. Soak the bread crumbs: In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and warm milk. Let sit a few minutes until softened.
3. Mix the meatball base: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, soaked bread mixture, eggs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—do not overwork.
4. Shape the meatballs: Scoop or roll into 1½–2 inch meatballs. Place evenly spaced on baking sheet.
5. Bake: Cook for 20–25 minutes, until firm, golden, and fully cooked through.
6. Simmer in sauce: Transfer baked meatballs to a saucepan with marinara. Simmer on low for 10–15 minutes.
7. Serve: Enjoy with pasta, polenta, in subs, or with salad and bread.

Recipe Tips

• Why use dark meat turkey?
  Dark meat has more fat, which keeps the meatballs juicy.
• Can I use panko instead of fresh bread crumbs?
  Yes, but fresh bread crumbs help make them softer.
• How do I prevent dry turkey meatballs?
  Don’t overmix, and make sure to simmer them in sauce before serving.
• Can I pan-fry instead of baking?
  Yes, but baking makes cleanup easier and keeps them tender.
• Can I freeze turkey meatballs?
  Yes, freeze before or after cooking. Store in freezer bags up to 3 months.

What To Serve With Turkey Meatballs

These turkey meatballs pair perfectly with:

• Spaghetti or linguine with marinara
• Creamy parmesan polenta
• Sub rolls with melted mozzarella
• A crisp Caesar salad
• Garlic bread

How To Store Turkey Meatballs

Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze meatballs (with or without sauce) for up to 3 months. Reheat in sauce for best flavor.

Turkey Meatballs Nutrition (Estimated Per Serving)

• Calories: ~340
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, shape and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Why did my meatballs fall apart?
Make sure to use enough bread crumbs and egg—they act as binders.

Do I have to bake them before simmering in sauce?
Baking helps them hold shape, but you can cook directly in sauce for a softer texture.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, but it may be leaner and require extra care not to overcook.

How do I know when they’re done?
They should reach 165°F internally and be golden on the outside.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Turkey Lasagna Recipe
• Ina Garten Lemon Capellini Recipe
• Ina Garten Roasted Sausage And Grapes Recipe