Delicious & Easy Turkey Sausage Meatballs: Recipes & Tips
Turkey sausage meatballs are a versatile and delicious option for a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a healthy meal prep component. They are lighter than traditional beef meatballs but still packed with flavor, especially when you use a good quality turkey sausage. This article will guide you through several recipes, offer tips for achieving perfect meatballs every time, and suggest creative ways to use them.
## Why Turkey Sausage Meatballs?
Before diving into the recipes, let’s explore why turkey sausage meatballs are a fantastic choice:
* **Healthier Option:** Turkey sausage is typically lower in fat and calories compared to pork or beef sausage, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.
* **Flavorful:** Turkey sausage comes in various flavors, from mild to spicy, allowing you to customize the meatballs to your liking. Italian sausage is a popular choice, but you can also find chorizo, maple, or even apple-flavored turkey sausage.
* **Versatile:** Turkey sausage meatballs can be used in countless dishes, from pasta sauces to soups to sandwiches.
* **Easy to Make:** Meatballs are generally simple to prepare, and turkey sausage meatballs are no exception. They require minimal ingredients and can be made in large batches for meal prepping.
## Essential Tips for Perfect Turkey Sausage Meatballs
Achieving perfect meatballs requires attention to a few key details:
* **Choose the Right Sausage:** Opt for a high-quality turkey sausage with a good balance of flavor and fat. Sausage labeled “sweet Italian” or “hot Italian” are popular choices and provide a great base for your meatballs. Make sure the sausage is fresh. Look for sausages that are made without artificial additives. Read the label to ensure the turkey sausage is made from high quality ingredients.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough meatballs. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined.
* **Add a Binder:** Breadcrumbs and eggs act as binders, holding the meatballs together and preventing them from falling apart. Use plain breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture. Incorporating grated parmesan cheese also adds to the binding and flavour profile.
* **Moisture is Key:** Adding a touch of moisture, such as milk or broth, helps to keep the meatballs tender and juicy. Don’t overdo it, though, or the meatballs will be too wet.
* **Test a Small Batch:** Before cooking the entire batch, fry or bake a small meatball to test for seasoning and consistency. Adjust the recipe as needed.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Whether you’re frying or baking, avoid overcrowding the pan. This will prevent the meatballs from browning evenly.
* **Use an Ice Cream Scoop or Cookie Scoop:** For uniform sized meatballs, use a scoop to portion the meat mixture. This ensures they cook evenly.
* **Consider Baking:** Baking meatballs is a healthier and easier alternative to frying. It also prevents them from sticking to the pan.
* **Proper Cooking Temperature:** Ensure the meatballs are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
* **Rest Before Serving:** Allowing the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps to retain their juices and prevent them from drying out.
## Turkey Sausage Meatball Recipes
Here are a few delicious turkey sausage meatball recipes to get you started:
### Recipe 1: Classic Italian Turkey Sausage Meatballs
This recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for pairing with pasta and marinara sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey sausage (sweet or hot Italian)
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.
4. Transfer the meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve immediately with your favorite pasta sauce and pasta.
### Recipe 2: Spicy Turkey Sausage Meatballs with Chipotle Sauce
For those who like a little heat, these spicy turkey sausage meatballs are a must-try. The chipotle sauce adds a smoky and spicy kick.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey sausage (hot Italian or chorizo)
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**For the Chipotle Sauce:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon sugar
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey sausage, breadcrumbs, cilantro, egg, chipotle pepper, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Bake the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the chipotle sauce. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce, chipotle pepper, chili powder, cumin, salt, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the baked meatballs to the chipotle sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve over rice or quinoa, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
### Recipe 3: Asian-Inspired Turkey Sausage Meatballs
These meatballs are packed with umami flavor and are perfect for serving over rice noodles or as an appetizer.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey sausage (plain or Asian-flavored)
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 teaspoon grated ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
**For the Glaze:**
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
* 1 tablespoon water
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey sausage, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Gently mix until just combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Bake the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water.
5. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the glaze thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them with the glaze.
7. Serve over rice noodles or as an appetizer, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
### Recipe 4: Turkey Sausage Meatball Subs
These meatball subs are a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey sausage (Italian)
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tsp Italian seasoning
* 1/4 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
* 4 hoagie rolls
* 8 slices provolone cheese
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey sausage, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, milk, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.
5. Add marinara sauce to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through.
6. Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise. Place two slices of provolone cheese on each roll.
7. Spoon the meatballs and sauce onto the rolls.
8. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve immediately.
### Recipe 5: Turkey Sausage Meatball and Vegetable Skewers
These skewers are a fun and healthy way to enjoy turkey sausage meatballs, perfect for grilling or baking.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey sausage (Italian or your favorite flavor)
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/4 cup chopped parsley
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
* Olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your grill.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
4. Thread meatballs and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between meatballs and vegetables.
5. Brush the skewers with olive oil.
6. If baking, place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
7. If grilling, grill the skewers over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
8. Serve immediately.
### Recipe 6: Turkey Sausage Meatball Soup
This soup is hearty, flavorful, and packed with vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food for a chilly day.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey sausage (Italian)
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tsp Italian seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 8 cups chicken broth
* 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or orzo)
* 1 cup chopped spinach
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add meatballs and pasta to the pot. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and pasta is tender.
7. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
### Recipe 7: Baked Turkey Sausage Meatballs with Marinara and Mozzarella
This is a simple baked dish similar to a meatball parmesan casserole.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Italian Turkey Sausage, removed from casings
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, Italian style
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 24 oz Marinara Sauce
* 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella, sliced
* Fresh Basil, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions**:
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the turkey sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
4. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in a baking dish.
5. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and top each meatball with a slice of fresh mozzarella.
8. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or on its own.
### Recipe 8: Turkey Sausage Meatball Stroganoff
A twist on a classic, this recipe combines turkey sausage meatballs with a creamy stroganoff sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Italian Turkey Sausage, removed from casings
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, plain
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 8 oz sliced mushrooms
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 cups beef broth
* 1 cup sour cream
* 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
* Hot cooked egg noodles, for serving
* Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey sausage, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion and mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth and flour until smooth.
7. Pour the broth mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
8. Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream.
9. Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the sauce has thickened.
10. Serve the meatball stroganoff over hot cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh dill.
## Serving Suggestions
Turkey sausage meatballs are incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:
* **Pasta and Marinara Sauce:** The classic pairing. Serve the meatballs over your favorite pasta with a generous helping of marinara sauce.
* **Meatball Subs:** Load hoagie rolls with meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted provolone cheese for a satisfying sandwich.
* **Appetizers:** Serve the meatballs with toothpicks and a dipping sauce, such as marinara, chipotle mayo, or sweet and sour sauce.
* **Salads:** Add the meatballs to a salad for a protein boost.
* **Grain Bowls:** Combine the meatballs with cooked grains, roasted vegetables, and a flavorful sauce.
* **Pizza Topping:** Slice the meatballs and use them as a pizza topping.
* **Soup:** Add the meatballs to your favorite soup for a hearty and flavorful meal.
* **Vegetable Skewers:** Thread the meatballs with vegetables and grill or bake for a healthy and delicious meal.
## Storage Tips
* **Refrigerator:** Cooked turkey sausage meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Frozen meatballs can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
## Reheating Instructions
* **Oven:** Reheat the meatballs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Microwave:** Reheat the meatballs in the microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to cover them to prevent splattering.
* **Stovetop:** Reheat the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
## Variations and Customizations
The beauty of turkey sausage meatballs is that you can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:
* **Cheese:** Add shredded mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar cheese to the meatball mixture for extra flavor and texture.
* **Vegetables:** Incorporate finely chopped vegetables, such as onions, carrots, celery, or bell peppers, into the meatball mixture.
* **Herbs and Spices:** Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, basil, thyme, cumin, or chili powder.
* **Sauces:** Try different sauces for dipping or serving, such as pesto, Alfredo sauce, or barbecue sauce.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make gluten-free meatballs.
* **Dairy-Free:** Omit the Parmesan cheese and milk for a dairy-free version.
## Conclusion
Turkey sausage meatballs are a delicious, healthy, and versatile ingredient that can be used in countless dishes. With these recipes and tips, you can easily create perfect turkey sausage meatballs every time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a healthy meal prep component, turkey sausage meatballs are a fantastic choice. So, get creative and start experimenting with different flavors and serving suggestions. Enjoy!