Looking for a new go-to dinner that hits the sweet, savory, and satisfying trifecta? Say hello to honey garlic turkey meatballs – the ultimate weeknight hero.
These meatballs are packed with lean protein, smothered in a sticky honey garlic glaze, and made with pantry staples you already have on hand.
Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a family, or just want something delicious and done in under 30 minutes, this recipe has your back.
In fact, turkey is not only lower in fat than beef, but it’s also rich in nutrients like B vitamins and selenium — a healthy choice and a tasty one.
This recipe checks all the boxes: flavorful, simple, nutritious, and totally satisfying.
Let’s dive into how to make these juicy meatballs and explore all the ways to enjoy them.
Why You’ll Love These Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
- Balanced flavor: Sweet honey and garlicky soy sauce come together beautifully in the glaze.
- Healthier alternative: Lean ground turkey is light but still incredibly juicy.
- Fast and easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect for meal prep: Stores well in the fridge or freezer for future meals.
- Family-friendly: Kid-approved and easy to pair with a variety of sides.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these honey garlic turkey meatballs, you’ll need the following:
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean works best)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, green onion, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — don’t overwork the mixture, as that can make the meatballs tough.
2. Form the Meatballs
Use a small scoop or your hands to roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs. Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the Meatballs
Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F), about 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can bake them at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.
4. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
While the meatballs cook, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. If you like a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Combine
Add the cooked meatballs to the pan of sauce and toss to coat. Let them simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes so the flavor really soaks in.
6. Garnish
Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Best Ways to Serve Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Over steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice
- With stir-fried vegetables for a balanced plate
- Tossed with noodles or zucchini noodles
- Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option
- As an appetizer with toothpicks at your next gathering
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
These meatballs are ideal for meal prep and make-ahead meals:
- Storage: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Tips for Perfect Turkey Meatballs Every Time
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; it should be just combined.
- Use damp hands or a scoop to make evenly sized meatballs.
- For easier cleanup, bake instead of pan-frying.
- Let the meatballs rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
Want to make it your own? Try one of these fun twists:
- Spicy Version: Add sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Different Protein: Use ground chicken or pork instead of turkey.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Extra Veggies: Add grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture for added nutrition.
- Zesty Glaze: Mix in a bit of rice vinegar or lime juice for tang.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute and works just as well with the honey garlic glaze.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can fully cook and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake them at 400°F for 15–18 minutes or until cooked through (165°F internal temp).
Easy Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey 93% lean works best
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or almond flour for gluten-free
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 green onion finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce low sodium recommended
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water optional for thickening
- Red pepper flakes optional for heat
Instructions
Mix the Meatball Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, green onion, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — don’t overwork the mixture, as that can make the meatballs tough.
Form the Meatballs
- Use a small scoop or your hands to roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs. Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
Cook the Meatballs
- Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F), about 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can bake them at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.
Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- While the meatballs cook, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. If you like a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine
- Add the cooked meatballs to the pan of sauce and toss to coat. Let them simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes so the flavor really soaks in.
Garnish
- Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.