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Garlic Butter Turkey Meatballs Recipe

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3.9 from 6 reviews

These Garlic Butter Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy option for a quick weeknight dinner. Ground turkey is combined with fresh herbs, garlic, and Parmesan, then seared in butter and olive oil before simmering in chicken broth to perfection. Served over roasted spaghetti squash, this dish is low-carb, packed with protein, and full of comforting garlic buttery flavor.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 lb. ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving, optional)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp. freshly chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp. finely chopped chives
  • 1 tbsp. milk
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Cooking

  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. butter
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)

For Serving

  • Roasted spaghetti squash

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), finely chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, fresh parsley, chopped chives, and milk. Season the mixture generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, then shape the mixture into uniform 1½-inch meatballs.
  2. Sear the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers and shows wisps of smoke, add the butter and swirl it to melt. Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet and sear them on all sides until they develop a golden brown crust, approximately 4 minutes. This step locks in moisture and adds rich flavor.
  3. Simmer the Meatballs: Pour the low-sodium chicken broth (or water) into the skillet with the seared meatballs. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap steam and allow the meatballs to cook through gently. Let them simmer for about 6 minutes until fully cooked inside, tender, and flavorful.
  4. Serve: Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them over roasted spaghetti squash. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious garlic butter turkey meatballs.

Notes

  • You can substitute the panko bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs if you need a gluten-free version.
  • Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness; adjust salt according to your taste.
  • Roasted spaghetti squash can be prepared ahead of time to save cooking time during meal prep.
  • If you prefer a richer taste, add a splash of white wine to the broth before simmering the meatballs.
  • These meatballs freeze well; freeze cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months.