Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
These honey garlic turkey meatballs are juicy, flavorful and coated in the perfect honey-garlic glaze thanks to NAKANO® Seasoned Rice Vinegar. Lean ground turkey gets mixed with garlic, ginger and green onions, baked until golden, then tossed in a sticky glaze of rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, garlic and ginger. These turkey meatballs are high protein and ready in about 30 minutes.
Love meatballs? Try my Greek Turkey Meatballs with Cucumber Feta Tomato Salad and Greek Rice.
Why You’ll Love These Turkey Meatballs
- Juicy lean turkey meatballs.
- Sticky honey garlic glaze.
- High protein.
- Ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients for Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
The Meatballs
Lean ground turkey, an egg, breadcrumbs or panko, garlic, white parts of green onions, grated ginger, salt and pepper.
The Honey Garlic Glaze
NAKANO® Seasoned Rice Vinegar, honey, low-sodium soy sauce, garlic, green parts of green onions and ginger, plus optional sesame seeds.
Swap note: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari for gluten free. Ground chicken works in place of turkey.
How to Make Turkey Meatballs
Step 1: Mix
Combine the turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, green onion whites, ginger, salt and pepper. Mix gently.
Step 2: Roll and bake
Roll into meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12 to 14 minutes until golden.
Step 3: Make the glaze
Whisk the rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, garlic, green onion greens and ginger in a skillet and simmer 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Toss and serve
Add the meatballs and toss until glossy. Finish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Carly’s Expert Tips
- Don’t overmix so the meatballs stay tender.
- Simmer longer for a thicker glaze.
- Wet your hands to roll easily.
- Use a scoop for even meatballs.
Make It Your Own
- Chicken: Use ground chicken.
- Spicy: Add sriracha to the glaze.
- Air fryer: Air fry at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Lettuce wraps: Serve in lettuce cups.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Roll the meatballs up to 1 day ahead, or freeze cooked meatballs up to 3 months.
What to Serve With Turkey Meatballs
Serve over rice or noodles with steamed broccoli or cucumber salad.
Storing and Reheating
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.
What People Ask About Turkey Meatballs
Can I use ground chicken?
Yes. Ground chicken works the same way.
How do I keep turkey meatballs juicy?
Do not overmix or overbake them.
Can I freeze turkey meatballs?
Yes. Freeze cooked meatballs up to 3 months.
What is seasoned rice vinegar?
Rice vinegar with a little sugar and salt for a balanced flavor.
Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, 2 cloves minced garlic, white parts of the green onions, 1 tsp grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Cook at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden and cooked through.
- In a skillet, whisk together NAKANO® Seasoned Rice Vinegar, honey, soy sauce, 2 cloves minced garlic, green parts of the green onions, and 1 tsp ginger.
- Simmer on low–medium heat for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring frequently.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet and toss until fully coated and glossy.
- Finish with sesame seeds and more green onions before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender and juicy.
- For a thicker glaze, simmer for an extra minute or two.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
