Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs

$- 1 lb ground turkey - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped - 1 egg, beaten - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium) - 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce - Sesame seeds, for garnish - Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish Gathering the right ingredients makes this dish shine. Ground turkey serves as the base. It’s lean and flavorful. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. Green onions add a nice crunch and flavor. You’ll beat the egg to help everything stick together. Soy sauce gives a salty depth. Fresh ginger adds a warm spice. Garlic brings an aromatic touch. Sesame oil enriches the meatballs with a nutty flavor. Black pepper and salt balance the taste. Teriyaki sauce is the star at the end. It coats the meatballs and adds sweetness. Garnishes like sesame seeds and fresh herbs make the dish look pretty. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture. Enjoy the process of gathering these fresh ingredients! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Mixing the turkey mixture: In a large bowl, add 1 pound of ground turkey. Then, mix in ½ cup of breadcrumbs, ¼ cup of finely chopped green onions, and 1 beaten egg. Add 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Don’t forget 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything well until it is evenly combined. - Preheating the oven: Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for getting a good bake on your meatballs. - Shaping the meatballs: Take small portions of the mixture, about the size of a golf ball. Roll them gently in your hands to shape them into meatballs. Place each meatball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This keeps them from sticking and makes for easy cleanup. - Baking time and temperature: Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Look for a golden brown color, and make sure they are cooked all the way through. - Heating and coating with teriyaki sauce: While the meatballs bake, pour ½ cup of teriyaki sauce into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until warm. This will enhance the flavor of your meatballs. - Simmering for flavor absorption: Once the meatballs are done, take them out of the oven. Transfer them to the saucepan with the warm teriyaki sauce. Toss them gently to coat the meatballs evenly. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the meatballs to absorb the rich flavors. To keep your meatballs moist, use ground turkey with some fat. Avoid lean turkey, as it can dry out. Adding breadcrumbs helps too. They soak up moisture and add texture. For flavor, mix in fresh herbs and spices. Chopped green onions bring a nice crunch. Ginger adds warmth. Garlic gives depth. You can also try adding a splash of sesame oil to boost flavor. Garnish your meatballs for a vibrant dish. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Add freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for color. These small touches make a big difference. Pair your meatballs with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables. A light salad on the side adds freshness. You can also serve them in lettuce wraps for a fun twist. You can cook your meatballs in different ways. Baking is simple and keeps them healthy. Just preheat your oven to 400°F. Place your meatballs on a lined sheet and bake until golden. Stovetop cooking is another option. Sear the meatballs in a pan until brown. Then, add teriyaki sauce and simmer. This method gives a nice glaze and adds flavor. Grilling is a great choice too. It adds a smoky taste. Form your meatballs, then place them on the grill for a few minutes on each side. Be careful not to overcook them. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the taste of your meatballs. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Check Doneness: Ensure the meatballs are cooked through by checking that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the teriyaki sauce by adding a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick! {{image_2}} You can switch out ground turkey for other meats. Ground chicken or lean beef work well. If you want a plant-based option, use lentils or mushrooms. Both give a great texture and taste. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also make your own by using ground oats or nuts. This keeps your meatballs soft and tasty. Try different sauces to mix things up. You can use teriyaki sauce mixed with honey or pineapple juice for a tropical twist. If you like heat, add some sriracha or chili sauce to the mix. Adjust the spice to fit your taste. You can also add different herbs or spices. A sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the flavor. Get creative and find your favorite combination. Incorporating regional flavors can take your meatballs to the next level. For example, add some cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern vibe. You can also try adding fresh basil or cilantro for a fresh twist. For Asian-inspired additions, consider mixing in hoisin sauce or a splash of rice vinegar. These will give your meatballs a unique taste. Combine these flavors with your teriyaki sauce for a delicious fusion. To keep your teriyaki turkey meatballs fresh, store them properly. - Refrigeration tips: Place leftover meatballs in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Ensure the meatballs are cooled before sealing to avoid condensation. - Freezing instructions: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs. Arrange them on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can stay good for up to 3 months. Reheating your meatballs correctly helps keep their flavor and texture. - Best practices for microwaving: Put meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep moisture. Heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot. Stir halfway for even heating. - Oven reheating suggestions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Knowing how long your meatballs last is key for safety. - How long they last in the fridge: Properly stored, meatballs last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. - Signs of spoilage: Look for any changes in color or a sour smell. If meatballs feel sticky or slimy, it’s best to throw them away. If you need a substitute for ground turkey, you have options. You can use ground chicken, which has a similar taste and texture. Ground beef works too, but it has a richer flavor. For a plant-based choice, try lentils or chickpeas. Both provide protein and will hold up well in meatballs. Yes, you can make these meatballs in advance! To prepare, mix the ingredients and form the meatballs. You can store them in the fridge for a day before cooking. If you want to store them longer, freeze them. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a bag for easy storage. To check if your turkey meatballs are done, use a meat thermometer. The inside should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, look for visual cues. The meatballs should be golden brown outside and no longer pink inside. Cut one open to check if it’s fully cooked. You learned how to make tasty Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs today. We covered important ingredients and easy steps to prepare them. Remember to experiment with flavors and cooking methods to suit your taste. Use the storage tips to keep leftovers fresh and tasty. You can always switch ingredients for a fun twist. With these tips, you can create delight with every bite. Enjoy cooking and share your delicious meatballs with friends!$

Delicious turkey meatballs coated in a savory teriyaki sauce, perfect for a quick meal.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
0.5 cup breadcrumbs
0.25 cup green onions, finely chopped
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
0.25 teaspoon salt
0.5 cup teriyaki sauce
to taste sesame seeds, for garnish
to taste fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, beaten egg, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt.
Mix well using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scoop out golf ball-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
While the meatballs are baking, pour the teriyaki sauce into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until warm.
Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the teriyaki sauce. Gently toss to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra flavor absorption.
Remove from heat and transfer the teriyaki turkey meatballs to a serving dish.

Notes

Garnish the meatballs with sesame seeds and freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve over steamed rice or alongside sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Keyword dinner, easy, meatballs, teriyaki, turkey