Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs Flavorful and Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and tasty dinner idea, you’ve found it! Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs are easy to make and full of flavor. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create juicy meatballs coated in a tasty glaze. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe will impress everyone. Let’s dive in and start cooking these delicious bites!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Option: These turkey meatballs are a leaner alternative to traditional meatballs, making them a guilt-free choice for any meal.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these meatballs come together quickly, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a deliciously sweet and savory glaze that elevates the meatballs to a whole new level.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients or add your favorite spices to make these meatballs your own.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
For these honey garlic turkey meatballs, you need:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Substitutions for Ingredients
You can swap ingredients based on your needs:
- Ground turkey can change to ground chicken or beef.
- Breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers or oats.
- Parmesan cheese can switch to any hard cheese you like.
- Use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of the egg for a vegan option.
- Honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a vegan glaze.
- Low sodium soy sauce can change to coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Optional Garnishes
To add flair, consider these garnishes:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for crunch.
- Add chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
- Drizzle extra honey for more sweetness.
- Serve with a side of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for color.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Meatball Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and egg. Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture gently. Be careful not to overmix. You want the meat to stay tender.
Shaping and Baking Meatballs
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape your meatballs. Use your hands to form small balls, about 1 inch in size. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. This helps them cook evenly. Bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Making the Honey Garlic Glaze
While the meatballs bake, let’s make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. This mix gives a sweet and tangy flavor. After baking, brush half of this glaze over the meatballs. Return them to the oven for another 5 minutes. This helps caramelize the glaze, adding a glossy finish. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and parsley to enhance the flavor of your meatballs.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatball ingredients until just combined to keep them tender and juicy.
- Check Internal Temperature: Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize the Glaze: Feel free to add spices or chili flakes to the honey glaze for an extra kick!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Meatballs
To make sure your meatballs cook just right, follow these tips. First, mix the meat gently. Overmixing can make them tough. Shape them into small balls, about one inch wide. This size helps them cook evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Lastly, brush on the honey glaze before and after baking for full flavor.
Ways to Prevent Meatballs from Drying Out
Dry meatballs are no fun. To keep them moist, add breadcrumbs and an egg. These ingredients help trap moisture inside. You can also use ground turkey with a bit more fat. This will keep them juicy. Don’t bake them too long. Check for doneness around the 15-minute mark. Once they reach the right temp, take them out.
Serving Suggestions
Honey garlic turkey meatballs shine when served right. Try them with rice or noodles for a full meal. A side of steamed veggies adds color and nutrients. If you want a snack, serve them with toothpicks for easy eating. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a nice touch. You can even drizzle extra honey on top for a sweeter flavor.

Variations
Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs
To add a kick to your honey garlic turkey meatballs, try this spicy twist. You can mix in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to your taste. These spices will bring heat and flavor. If you want more heat, mix in some sriracha into the glaze. This simple change makes your meatballs exciting and bold.
Alternative Protein Options
If turkey isn’t your thing, you have options. Ground chicken is a great choice. It has a similar texture and flavor. You can also use lean ground beef or pork. Just keep in mind that beef may change the taste slightly. Each protein will give you a unique flavor but still keep the dish delicious.
Vegetarian Adaptation
For a plant-based version, swap the turkey for lentils or chickpeas. Cooked lentils work well. Mash them with breadcrumbs and spices instead of meat. You can also use store-bought meat substitutes. This way, you can enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of honey garlic meatballs while keeping it meat-free. Add some chopped vegetables for extra texture and taste.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Meatballs
To keep your leftover meatballs fresh, let them cool down first. Place them in an airtight container. Store the container in the fridge for up to three days. If you have extra glaze, you can save that too. Just keep it in a small jar in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste later.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save meatballs for later, freezing is a great option. Once they cool, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour. This step prevents them from sticking together. After an hour, transfer the meatballs to a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze them for up to three months.
Reheating Guidelines
When you’re ready to eat frozen meatballs, take them out of the freezer. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place them in a baking dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are hot all the way through. You can also reheat them in the microwave. Just cover the dish and heat in short bursts. This keeps them moist and tasty. Enjoy those honey garlic flavors again!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use other meats. Ground chicken and ground beef work well. Just keep in mind that each type of meat may change the flavor. Adjust the cooking time if using beef since it takes longer to cook than turkey.
How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?
Check the internal temperature. Meatballs should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The outside should look golden brown. If they are firm to the touch, they are likely ready.
Can I make the glaze in advance?
Yes, you can mix the glaze ahead of time. Store it in the fridge until you need it. This saves time when you are ready to cook. Just give it a quick stir before using it on the meatballs.
This blog post covered all the ingredients you need for meatballs and their glaze. I shared tips for perfect cooking and how to keep meatballs juicy. You also learned about tasty variations and how to store leftovers.
Remember, you can easily adapt the recipe to fit your tastes. Enjoy making these meatballs, whether for a family dinner or a fun gathering. With practice, you will impress everyone with your skills. Happy cooking!

Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
1 pound ground turkey
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.
Brush or drizzle half of the honey mixture over the meatballs before baking.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush with the remaining honey glaze. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze slightly.
Once done, let the meatballs cool for a few minutes, then transfer them to a serving platter.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 unit egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- to taste unit Sesame seeds for garnish
- to taste unit green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.
- Brush or drizzle half of the honey mixture over the meatballs before baking.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush with the remaining honey glaze. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze slightly.
- Once done, let the meatballs cool for a few minutes, then transfer them to a serving platter.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.


![- Ground beef - Breadcrumbs - Parmesan cheese - Egg - Garlic The main ingredients create the base of your sweet and sour meatballs. Ground beef gives the meatballs their hearty flavor. Breadcrumbs add texture, while Parmesan cheese gives a rich taste. An egg binds everything together, making the meatballs easy to shape. Garlic adds a lovely aroma and enhances the flavor. - Sugar - Apple cider vinegar - Ketchup - Soy sauce - Pineapple chunks The sweet and sour sauce brings the dish to life. Sugar balances the tangy apple cider vinegar. Ketchup adds a nice tomato base, while soy sauce gives a savory depth. Pineapple chunks add a burst of sweetness and texture, making the sauce even more enjoyable. - Cornstarch (for thickening) - Water (for thickening) - Bell peppers You can make your sauce thicker by using cornstarch and water. This gives the sauce a nice consistency that clings to the meatballs. Adding bell peppers not only adds color but also gives extra crunch and flavor. For the full recipe, check out the details above! First, take a large bowl and combine the following ingredients: - 500g ground beef - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 egg - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste Mix these ingredients gently until they come together. You don’t want to overmix. Next, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size. This size helps them cook evenly. Place your meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Now, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This step ensures that your meatballs cook properly. Once the oven is hot, put your baking sheet with the meatballs inside. Bake them for 20 to 25 minutes. They should turn a nice brown color and be cooked through. While the meatballs bake, let’s make the sweet and sour sauce. In a saucepan, combine: - 1/2 cup sugar - 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar - 1/4 cup ketchup - 1 teaspoon soy sauce Stir these ingredients on medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Then, add in: - 1 cup pineapple chunks - 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper - 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry. Stir this into the sauce and cook for an extra 2 to 3 minutes. Once the meatballs are done, you can coat them in the sweet and sour sauce or serve the sauce on the side. Enjoy your meal with rice or noodles for a fun and tasty dinner! For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. - Ideal meatball size: Aim for meatballs about 1 inch wide. This size cooks evenly and is easy to eat. If you make them too big, they may not cook through. If too small, they may dry out. - Ensuring moisture retention: To keep meatballs moist, do not overmix the meat mixture. Mix just until combined. Adding breadcrumbs helps absorb moisture, making them juicy. You can also use milk to soak the breadcrumbs for extra softness. - Balance of sweet and sour flavors: The key to great sauce is balance. Aim for equal parts sugar and vinegar. This gives you that classic sweet and sour taste. Use fresh pineapple for a bright flavor. You can adjust sugar for sweetness and vinegar for tanginess based on your taste. - Tips for thickening: If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry. Stir this into the sauce while it simmers. It will thicken quickly, giving you a rich and glossy finish. - Ideal side dishes: Serve sweet and sour meatballs over rice or noodles. They soak up the sauce well. Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, make a great side too. You can also try serving with a fresh salad for crunch. - Garnishing options: Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top. This adds color and a nice crunch. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh twist. Garnishes make your dish look bright and inviting. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. {{image_2}} You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These lean meats provide a lighter taste. Ground turkey may require a bit more seasoning since it has less flavor. Chicken works well too and stays juicy when cooked right. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or chickpeas. These add protein while being tasty and fun. You can mash them up and mix in the same ingredients as the meatballs. Want to spice things up? Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce. This gives a nice kick that balances the sweetness. You can also swap the sugar for honey or maple syrup for a twist. If you want a healthier option, reduce the sugar and use a sugar substitute. For a tangier sauce, add more vinegar or some fresh lime juice. Add vegetables to your meatballs for extra flavor and nutrition. Chopped spinach or grated carrots blend well into the mix. You can also serve the meatballs over different carbs. Rice is classic, but try noodles or even quinoa for a fresh take. These choices bring variety and make each meal feel special. After you enjoy the sweet and sour meatballs, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Meatballs can last about three to four days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and sauce together. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. This way, they can last up to three months. Just remember to label them with the date. When it's time to eat leftovers, you can reheat them in two main ways. The oven is best for even heat. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the meatballs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. The microwave works too, but it can make them a bit soggy. If using the microwave, heat for 1-2 minutes at a time. Check often to avoid overcooking. Keep the flavors and textures intact by not overheating them. Cooked meatballs can stay safe in the fridge for about three to four days. If frozen, they can last for up to three months. Sweet and sour sauce lasts longer. It can stay fresh in the fridge for about one week. If you freeze the sauce, it can last for up to six months. Always check for any off smells or changes before using them. These tips will help keep your sweet and sour meatballs tasty for longer! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just like regular ones. You can also use ground oats or crushed rice crackers. If you want to skip the breadcrumbs, try ground nuts. They add a nice flavor, too. Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Both options give a lighter taste. If you want a vegetarian dish, try using lentils or chickpeas. These options are healthy and delicious. These meatballs pair well with rice or noodles. You can also serve them with steamed veggies. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. Feel free to get creative with your sides. To add more heat, you can include red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Just a little goes a long way. You can also add minced jalapeños for a fresh kick. Adjust the spice level to match your taste. Sweet and sour meatballs are a fun, tasty dish. We covered key ingredients, from meat to sauce. I shared steps for making perfect meatballs and sauce. Remember to balance flavors for the best taste. Feel free to try different meats and sauces to suit your taste. With this guide, your sweet and sour meatballs will impress everyone. Enjoy cooking and sharing this meal with loved ones.](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/6a38a525-ac29-43e7-bdf8-6ebffeec64fd-768x768.webp)



