Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
These Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs are a simple and healthy dinner made with lean ground turkey and a sticky, sweet garlic sauce.
They’re perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want something light but full of flavor.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, ready in under 40 minutes, and made with basic pantry staples.
If you’re tired of the same old ground turkey meals, this recipe will change your mind. It’s easy to make, kid-approved, and perfect with rice, noodles, or veggies.
Why You’ll Love It
- ✅ Healthy: Made with lean protein and no dairy
- ✅ Easy: Uses simple ingredients and one bowl
- ✅ Quick: Ready in just 40 minutes
- ✅ Versatile: Serve with rice, veggies, or noodles
- ✅ Gluten-Free: No wheat or dairy required
Ingredients
For the Meatballs (makes ~20 meatballs):
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 1 egg
- ½ cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (or almond flour)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup onion, grated or finely chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or green onion (optional)
For the Sauce:
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water (for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
2. Shape the Balls
Form the mixture into 20 small meatballs. You can use a cookie scoop or your hands. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Cook the Meatballs
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Alternatively, pan-fry them in a bit of oil for about 10–12 minutes, turning often.
4. Make the Sauce
While the meatballs are cooking, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, and ¼ cup water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a simmer.
5. Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Add this to the sauce and stir. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Combine Everything
Add the cooked meatballs to the pan of sauce. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs well. Simmer everything together for 2–3 more minutes.
Serving Ideas
These turkey meatballs are super flexible. You can serve them with:
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Noodles or zucchini noodles
- A side of roasted or stir-fried vegetables
- Inside lettuce wraps for a light meal
Helpful Tips
- Use grated onion: It blends into the meat easily and adds moisture.
- Chill the mix: If the mixture is too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes before forming.
- Double the sauce: Great if you’re serving with rice or noodles.
- Add spice: Mix in some chili flakes or sriracha if you want a kick.
- Don’t overmix: Light mixing keeps the meatballs tender.
Meal Prep and Storage
These meatballs are great for leftovers and meal prep.
In the fridge:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
In the freezer:
Let the meatballs cool, then freeze them with or without the sauce for up to 2 months.
To reheat:
Warm them in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or extra sauce.
Great for All Diets
These meatballs are:
- 🌾 Gluten-Free (when using gluten-free soy sauce and breadcrumbs)
- 🥛 Dairy-Free
- 🥗 Easy to pair with healthy, low-carb sides
- 👪 Loved by both adults and kids
These Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs are quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for dinner tonight or prepping ahead for the week, this recipe is a simple way to enjoy ground turkey in a whole new way.
