Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Name: Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 4 cloves garlic (2 for meatballs, 2 for sauce); 1/3 cup honey; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: September 2, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Flavorful: The combination of honey and garlic creates a sweet and savory sauce that enhances the turkey meatballs beautifully.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, over rice, or in a wrap for a delightful meal any way you choose.
Healthy Choice: Ground turkey is leaner than other meats, making this a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Kid-Friendly: The sweet sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a family favorite.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on these Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet or skillet
Saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
Baking sheet or skillet: Choose based on your cooking method; both options yield delicious results but offer different textures.
Saucepan: Ideal for creating the honey garlic sauce that brings everything together perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water

How to Make Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients together until they are well incorporated. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

You can choose to bake or pan-fry the Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs, depending on your preference.
* For baking: Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet and cook them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
* Alternatively, you can pan-fry the meatballs in a large skillet over medium-high heat until they are golden brown and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the meatballs are cooking, it’s time to make the delectable honey garlic sauce. In a saucepan:
1. Combine the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat while stirring occasionally.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
4. Slowly pour this slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking constantly until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Enjoy these delicious Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Serving Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs is all about enhancing their delightful flavor and making every meal enjoyable. These meatballs can be paired with various sides or served in unique ways to create a delicious experience.

With Rice

Serve the meatballs over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice will soak up the honey garlic sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor.

In a Wrap

Wrap the meatballs in a tortilla with fresh vegetables and your favorite sauce for a tasty handheld meal. This is perfect for lunch or on-the-go eating.

On Pasta

Toss the meatballs with cooked pasta and a drizzle of the honey garlic sauce. Add some grated cheese on top for a comforting dinner option.

As Appetizers

Skewer the meatballs on toothpicks and serve as appetizers at your next gathering. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

With Salad

Place the meatballs on top of mixed greens along with your favorite dressing for a healthy and satisfying salad. The sweet and savory flavors will elevate any salad.

How to Perfect Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Creating the perfect Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time.

Use lean turkey – Opting for lean ground turkey keeps the meatballs moist while reducing fat content, making them healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Don’t overmix – Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine ingredients just until they are blended for a tender texture.
Adjust sweetness – If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of honey in the sauce. A balanced sauce enhances the overall taste without overwhelming it.
Experiment with spices – Feel free to add spices like paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This can customize the flavor profile according to your preference.
Check doneness – Ensure they are fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures food safety while keeping them juicy.
Let them rest – Allowing the meatballs to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain moisture and brings out their full flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Pairing side dishes with your Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs can elevate your meal and provide balance. Here are some fantastic options:

Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, complementing the rich flavors of the meatballs perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables – A mix of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds sweetness and crunch alongside your turkey meatballs.
Quinoa Salad – Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs and lemon dressing offers a healthy, protein-packed side that pairs well with honey garlic flavors.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting contrast to the savory-sweet meatballs.
Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a crisp, light counterbalance to the richness of the dish.
Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw brings texture and tanginess, making it an excellent side dish that complements honey flavors well.
Noodle Stir-Fry – Quick-fried noodles with veggies make an easy side that soaks up any remaining sauce from the meatballs, enhancing each bite.
Cauliflower Rice – Low-carb cauliflower rice is light yet satisfying, making it an ideal base for soaking up all those delicious sauces from your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome.

Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the mixture properly can result in bland meatballs. Always add salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Overmixing the meatball mixture: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine the ingredients gently until just mixed.
Not preheating the oven: If you don’t preheat your oven, the meatballs may cook unevenly. Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature before baking.
Ignoring cooking times: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your dish. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Using low-quality honey: The flavor of your sauce relies on good honey. Choose high-quality honey for the best taste in your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warmed evenly.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cooking time for Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs?

The cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes when baked at 400°F (200°C).

Can I use other ground meats?

Yes! You can substitute ground chicken, beef, or lamb if you prefer.

How do I make Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Meatballs are not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are sure to please everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try today!

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