Juicy, cheesy baked turkey meatballs with fresh herbs and Parmesan—healthy, flavorful, and perfect for dinner or as a party appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier twist: Lean ground turkey makes this a lighter option compared to beef
Cheesy goodness: The addition of Parmesan creates a creamy, savory bite

Herb-infused flavor: Fresh basil, parsley, oregano, and garlic pack every bite with flavor
Simple prep: Minimal steps with everyday ingredients
Oven-baked: No need for messy frying—just roll and bake

Meal prep friendly: Makes a big batch perfect for freezing or storing
Versatile serving: Great with marinara, in subs, or solo
Kid-approved: Mild flavors and cheesy texture make them a hit with kids

ingredients

2 lbs ground turkey
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves fresh garlic, chopped or minced

2 shallots, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp fresh ground pepper

1 tsp sea salt or Kosher salt
1 tsp dried oregano
2 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped

2 eggs
1/2 cup bread crumbs (regular or gluten-free)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil
In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add chopped shallots and cook for 5 minutes on medium-low. In the last minute, stir in the garlic. Remove from heat
In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, parsley, pepper, salt, oregano, basil, eggs, bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Stir in the sautéed shallots and garlic. Mix gently to combine without overworking

Use a large tablespoon or cookie scoop to form small to medium-sized meatballs. Roll into balls
Place meatballs evenly on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart
Bake for 23–25 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C)

Remove from oven and serve warm with your favorite sauce or on their own

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 24 meatballs
Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 135 kcal per meatball

Variations

Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat
Cheese lovers: Mix in shredded mozzarella for extra gooey centers
Saucy finish: Simmer cooked meatballs in marinara or barbecue sauce

Low-carb option: Swap bread crumbs with almond flour
Mini meatballs: Make bite-sized versions for party skewers or lunchboxes
Mediterranean twist: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze individually on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months
Reheat: Microwave for 30–60 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge or bake directly from frozen for 10–15 extra minutes

FAQs

What can I serve with these turkey meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with pasta, mashed potatoes, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well and delivers similar results in taste and texture.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread crumbs to make them entirely gluten-free.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and refrigerate the meatball mixture up to a day in advance before baking.

How do I keep turkey meatballs from drying out?

Avoid overmixing the meat and use ingredients like eggs and cheese to retain moisture.

Can I fry these meatballs instead of baking?

You can, but baking is less messy and healthier. If frying, cook them over medium heat until golden and cooked through.

What sauce goes best with these meatballs?

Classic marinara, Alfredo, or a garlic butter sauce all work beautifully.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I add vegetables to the meatballs?

Yes, finely chopped spinach, grated zucchini, or carrots can be added for extra nutrients.

Do these freeze well?

Absolutely. Freeze them after baking and reheat as needed for quick meals.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs are a delicious, satisfying alternative to traditional meatballs. Packed with fresh herbs, melty cheese, and baked to perfection, they’re ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or party appetizers. With endless variation options and easy prep, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Cheesy Baked Turkey Meatballs

Author: Chef Clara
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 meatballs 1x

Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Juicy, cheesy baked turkey meatballs with fresh herbs and Parmesan—healthy, flavorful, and perfect for dinner or as a party appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs ground turkey
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves fresh garlic, chopped or minced
2 shallots, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 tsp fresh ground pepper
1 tsp sea salt or Kosher salt
1 tsp dried oregano

2 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped
2 eggs
1/2 cup bread crumbs (regular or gluten-free)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium; cook shallots for ~5 mins, add garlic in last minute, then remove from heat.

In a bowl, combine turkey, herbs, eggs, bread crumbs, Parmesan, and cooked shallots/garlic. Mix gently.
Shape into meatballs using a tablespoon or scoop.
Place on baking sheet without touching.

Bake for 23–25 mins, or until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).

Serve with sauce or as desired.

Notes

For gluten-free: use certified GF breadcrumbs.

Do not overmix to keep meatballs tender.
Great for meal prep—freezes well!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked

Cuisine: American