Easy Mediterranean Baked Turkey Meatballs
These juicy Mediterranean Baked Turkey Meatballs blend lean ground turkey with aromatic spices for a healthier twist on classic meatballs. Packed with flavor from cumin, cinnamon, and fresh herbs, they’re perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meat thermometer
- Small bowl
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound Ground turkey [450 g]
Produce
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1/4 cup Shallots minced [about 1 medium shallot, 40 g]
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley finely chopped [15 g]
- Zest of 1 Lemon
Baking & Spices
- 1/4 cup Dried breadcrumbs [30 g]
- 1 large Egg
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper optional
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
Oils & Vinegars
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil [15 ml]
Dairy
- 1 cup Greek yogurt for the optional sauce
Condiments
- 1 clove Garlic minced, for the optional sauce
- Juice of 1/2 Lemon for the optional sauce
- to taste Salt and black pepper for the optional sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, minced shallots, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
- Add the egg and olive oil to the bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Add the ground turkey to the mixture. Using your hands, gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Form the mixture into 30 meatballs, each about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each meatball.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Quick Yogurt Sauce (Optional)
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Serve immediately alongside the Mediterranean Baked Turkey Meatballs, or refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
Enjoy these meatballs in Mediterranean bowls with rice, salad, and hummus, or as a protein in various dishes. Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Notes:
- Lighter Alternatives: Use ground chicken instead of turkey for a different lean protein option. Substitute breadcrumbs with oat flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Swap lemon zest with lime zest for a citrusy twist. Use dried herbs if fresh ones are not available, but reduce the quantity by half to avoid overpowering the flavor.
- Storage Instructions: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Tips: Reheat the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated.
Quick Tips:
- Achieving Juicy Meatballs: Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender. Use a light hand when forming the meatballs to maintain a juicy texture.
- Thickening the Sauce: If serving with a yogurt sauce, add a teaspoon of tahini or a spoonful of cream cheese to make it thicker and creamier.
- Better Browning: For a golden crust, lightly brush the meatballs with olive oil before baking.
Side Dish Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh Mediterranean salad made of cucumber, tomatoes, red onions, and olives, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Pair with a side of couscous, quinoa, or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to create a complete meal.
- Include a dollop of hummus or tzatziki for added flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Lean Protein: Ground turkey provides high-quality, lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and maintenance.
- Rich in Vitamins: Fresh parsley adds a dose of vitamins A, C, and K, while lemon zest provides a touch of vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Low in Calories: These meatballs are low in calories yet satisfying, making them a great option for a healthy dinner.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve 5 meatballs per person as the main protein, along with a generous scoop of yogurt sauce on the side.
- Garnish with extra fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a vibrant presentation.
- Pair with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the Mediterranean flavors.
Meal Prep Tips:
- Advance Preparation: Mix and shape the meatballs in advance, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen by adding 5-7 minutes to the cook time.
Customization Ideas:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground turkey with a mixture of cooked lentils and finely chopped mushrooms for a plant-based version.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the optional yogurt sauce or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to make the meatballs more or less spicy.
