The moment the tantalizing aroma of garlic and herbs fills my kitchen, I’m transported to a cozy Italian trattoria. It’s then that I know something delicious is on the horizon—like these Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs, a delightful twist on a classic that’s bound to please every palate at your dinner table. As I blend lean ground turkey with robust Italian sausage, the anticipation builds for a meal that’s not only scrumptious but also family-friendly and easy to whip up on a hectic weeknight.
What makes these meatballs truly special is their ability to be both light and satisfying, perfectly complemented by a rich, homemade tomato sauce that you’ll want to savor by the spoonful. Whether you decide to serve them over a mound of spaghetti, nestle them in a meatball sub, or even toss them onto a salad, these meatballs offer endless versatility. Join me in creating a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming family favorite!
Why are these Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs so special?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a burst of savory goodness from the Italian sausage mixed with ground turkey.
Healthier Option: Packed with lean protein, these meatballs are a healthier alternative to traditional recipes.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these tasty morsels, making dinner a breeze!
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can enjoy gourmet flavor in no time; perfect for busy weeknights.
Endless Variations: Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients, or serve them as a meatball sub or over pasta.
Meal Prep Friendly: Not only are they delicious, but they’re also great for making and freezing ahead—try them later with ease!
Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Ground Turkey – 93% lean is best for moisture and flavor.
• Italian Sausage – Adds seasoning; Johnsonville mild is a reliable choice.
• Onion – Finely diced to enhance sweetness and help the meatballs hold their shape.
• Parmesan Cheese – Provides umami richness; substitute with Pecorino for more punch.
• Bread Crumbs – Helps bind the mixture and adds texture; Progresso Italian style is preferred.
• Parsley – Freshly chopped adds vibrant flavor; basil can be a great substitute.
• Milk – Enhances moisture; whole milk is ideal, but non-dairy works as well.
• Garlic – Freshly minced for an aromatic flavor boost.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies sauce flavor; can omit for a lighter sauce.
• Eggs – Binds the meatballs together; ensure they’re at room temperature for best results.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – For sautéing the onion; vegetable oil can serve as a substitute.
• Tomato Sauce – Base for simmering, Hunt’s is recommended but any smooth type works.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Adds body to the sauce; canned options are convenient.
• Basil – Fresh is preferred for flavor, but dried can suffice in a pinch.
These Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs are not only delicious but also come together with ingredients that make cooking easy and enjoyable.
How to Make Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs
Prepare Ingredients: Start by finely dicing 1 cup of onion and mincing 3 cloves of garlic. These aromatic veggies will enhance the flavor of your meatballs, so take the time to chop them well.
Mix Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground turkey, 1 pound of Italian sausage, the diced onion, minced garlic, 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, 1 cup of bread crumbs, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 1/4 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 eggs, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep them tender.
Shape Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Divide the mixture and shape it into golf ball-sized meatballs, approximately 2 tablespoons each, and place them on a greased baking sheet.
Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are browned and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. They should have a nice crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside.
Sauté Onions for Sauce: In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining 1 cup of diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Simmer Sauce: Pour in 1 can of tomato sauce and 1 can of crushed tomatoes into the pot. Add a handful of fresh basil and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Gently add the baked meatballs into the simmering sauce and let them cook together for an additional 20-30 minutes. This step helps the meatballs absorb all that wonderful sauce flavor.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve your Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs over pasta, in a sub with melted cheese, or with garlic bread for dipping. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors with your loved ones!
Optional: Garnish with extra parsley or grated parmesan before serving for an added touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs
Don’t Overmix: Gently combining the meatball mixture ensures a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so handle the mixture with care.
Even Size Matters: Aim for meatballs about 2 tablespoons each for uniform cooking. This helps prevent some being undercooked or overcooked while others are not.
Rest Before Sauce: Allow your baked meatballs to sit for a few minutes before adding them to the sauce. This helps them maintain their shape and absorb flavor better.
Gentle Stirring: When adding meatballs to the simmering sauce, stir gently to avoid breaking them apart. This will keep them intact and beautifully presented.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Start with room-temperature eggs and milk for smoother mixing. Cold ingredients can make the mixture less cohesive.
Explore Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize your Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs with different herbs, cheeses, or by adding vegetables to enhance nutrition and flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs
- Fridge: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Freezer: Freeze meatballs on a baking sheet for up to 3 months to prevent sticking. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for longer storage.
- Reheating: Thaw meatballs in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop with sauce over low heat. This keeps them moist without losing flavor.
- Meal Prep: Prepare a double batch of your Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs for easy weeknight meals. They’re perfect for quick dinners or lunchboxes!
Make Ahead Options
These Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs are ideal for busy weeknights and can be prepped ahead to save time! You can mix the meatball mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to shape and bake. For maximum flavor retention, keep the meatballs and sauce separate until just before serving; this prevents them from becoming soggy. If you prefer, you can also bake the meatballs and then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the sauce over low heat, ensuring they’re warmed through before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious flavors that taste just as fresh!
Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs Variations
Unleash your creativity in the kitchen and try some of these exciting twists for your meatballs!
- Ground Chicken: Swap out the turkey for lean ground chicken for a lighter flavor, keeping all the excitement.
- Beefy Switch: Feel free to use ground beef instead for a heartier bite that everyone will enjoy. It brings a rich taste that complements the spices perfectly!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour to make these meatballs suitable for gluten-sensitive diners without sacrificing taste.
- Veggie-Loaded: Add chopped veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into the meatball mixture for an extra nutritional boost and vibrant color.
- Spicy Kick: For a touch of heat, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to elevate those flavors wonderfully!
- Cheddar Surprise: Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese to add a melty, gooey texture that will make your meatballs even more irresistible.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs such as oregano or rosemary to introduce new aromatic notes, complementing the Italian flavors beautifully.
- Pasta-Free Option: Serve them on a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta for a delicious low-carb meal that satisfies!
What to Serve with Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs?
The rich flavors of these savory meatballs invite a bounty of delightful pairings that transform your dinner into a feast.
- Spaghetti: Nothing beats classic spaghetti with meatballs; the noodles soak up the tomato sauce while providing a comforting texture.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up extra sauce and adds a lovely aromatic touch to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad balances out the hearty meatballs, offering a refreshing crunch with creamy dressing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies such as bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors beautifully.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles; they provide a light, fresh alternative that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
- Risotto: The creaminess of risotto creates an elegant base that enhances the meatballs, inviting warmth and creamy decadence to the plate.
- Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese elevates your meal, harmonizing with the savory notes of the meatballs and sauce.
- Cheesy Polenta: Creamy, cheesy polenta makes for a delightful and indulgent side that contrasts with the meatballs, bringing a rustic Italian flair to the table.
- Chocolate Dessert: Finish with a rich chocolate mousse or tart; this sweet ending complements the savory meatballs and leaves a lasting impression.
Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ground turkey for these meatballs?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for ground turkey that is 93% lean. This balance ensures the meatballs are flavorful while still remaining juicy, preventing them from drying out during cooking. Look for ground turkey that is pinkish in color without dark spots, which can indicate it’s past its prime.
What is the best way to store leftover meatballs?
Very simple! Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. This allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors without a hitch!
Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
Definitely! To freeze your Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs, first, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until they’re firm—this usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs into a freezer-safe bag, labeling it with the date. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months.
What can I do if my meatballs are too crumbly?
If your meatballs end up crumbly, it might be due to insufficient binding agents. Depending on how you’ve prepared them, you could try adding an extra egg or a splash of milk to the mixture before baking. Another tip is to use room-temperature ingredients, which help with binding and can result in a smoother texture. If you’ve already cooked them, serve them in sauce, as this will help hold them together better!
Are these meatballs safe for kids with food allergies?
It’s always best to check! This recipe contains common allergens like dairy (from the cheese and milk) and gluten (from the bread crumbs), so modifications are necessary for those with allergies. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and non-dairy milk, and make sure the sausage is free of allergens. Always consult with a healthcare provider for specific dietary needs.
How do I reheat frozen meatballs without drying them out?
To keep your meatballs moist and flavorful when reheating, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat them gently in a pot with some sauce over low heat. This method allows them to absorb moisture back from the sauce, keeping them nice and juicy. Stir gently to avoid breaking them apart!
Irresistible Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs Recipe
Equipment
- - Large bowl
- - Baking sheet
- - Pot
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound Ground Turkey 93% lean is best for moisture and flavor.
- 1 pound Italian Sausage Adds seasoning; Johnsonville mild is a reliable choice.
- 1 cup Onion Finely diced to enhance sweetness.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Provides umami richness.
- 1 cup Bread Crumbs Progresso Italian style is preferred.
- 1/4 cup Parsley Freshly chopped adds vibrant flavor.
- 1/4 cup Milk Whole milk is ideal.
- 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for flavor boost.
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Intensifies sauce flavor.
- 2 Eggs Ensure they’re at room temperature.
- Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
- Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing the onion.
- 1 can Tomato Sauce Base for simmering.
- 1 can Crushed Tomatoes Adds body to the sauce.
- 1 handful Basil Fresh is preferred for flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by finely dicing 1 cup of onion and mincing 3 cloves of garlic.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground turkey, 1 pound of Italian sausage, diced onion, minced garlic, 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, 1 cup of bread crumbs, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 1/4 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 eggs, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Divide the mixture and shape it into golf ball-sized meatballs, approximately 2 tablespoons each.
Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes.
- In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and sauté 1 cup of diced onion until translucent.
- Pour in 1 can of tomato sauce and 1 can of crushed tomatoes, add basil, and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Gently add the baked meatballs into the simmering sauce and cook together for an additional 20-30 minutes.
- Serve your Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs over pasta, in a sub with melted cheese, or with garlic bread.