Welcome to the ultimate guide on making the perfect Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs! This dish is not only delicious but also healthier than traditional beef meatballs. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner option or a tasty appetizer, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive in and learn how to make these mouthwatering Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs!

(Note: the recipe card directly below.PDF )

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs

There are so many reasons to love these Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs. First, they’re incredibly flavorful. The combination of ground turkey, cheese, and herbs creates a burst of taste in every bite. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, which makes them a healthier option without sacrificing any of the deliciousness.

But that’s not all. These meatballs are also incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a main dish with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or even as an appetizer with a dipping sauce. The possibilities are endless!

And let’s not forget about the leftovers. These meatballs taste even better the next day, making them the perfect meal prep option. Just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs:

ground turkey
breadcrumbs
grated Parmesan cheese
shredded mozzarella cheese
egg
garlic, minced
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

Spicy Turkey Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.
Herb-Infused Meatballs: Mix in some fresh basil or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Place a small cube of cheese in the center of each meatball before baking for a gooey surprise.
Gluten-Free Meatballs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a binder.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs

Making Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Let the meatballs cool for a few minutes, then serve with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to make your Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs even better:

Use Fresh Herbs: Whenever possible, use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to avoid tough meatballs.
Uniform Size: Make sure all the meatballs are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C).

How to Serve

Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

With Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta with marinara sauce for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
In a Sub: Pile the meatballs onto a sub roll with melted cheese and marinara sauce for a hearty sandwich.
As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and a dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
With Veggies: Pair with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs are perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to make them ahead and store them:

Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatball mixture up to a day in advance. Just cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Reheat: Reheat the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave.
Freeze: To freeze, let the meatballs cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely. You can swap out the ground turkey for ground chicken.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

They can be! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a binder.

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I make these meatballs spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.

Can I add more cheese?

Of course! Feel free to add extra cheese to the mixture or sprinkle some on top before baking.

How long do these meatballs keep in the fridge?

They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

And there you have it—the ultimate guide to making delicious Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs. This flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional meatballs is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner option or a tasty appetizer, these meatballs have you covered. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.

Happy cooking!