Low Calorie Turkey Meatballs

Highlighted under: Fresh & Light

Enjoy a healthier take on traditional meatballs with these Low Calorie Turkey Meatballs. Perfect for a light meal or snack!

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-31T17:46:30.210Z

These Low Calorie Turkey Meatballs are a delightful option for those looking to indulge without the guilt. Packed with flavor and made from lean turkey, they are perfect for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Lean protein option that helps you stay on track with your health goals
  • Versatile and can be served in a variety of dishes
  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

A Healthy Twist on Comfort Food

Meatballs are a timeless classic, often enjoyed for their savory flavor and satisfying texture. However, traditional recipes can be high in calories and fat, making them less suitable for health-conscious individuals. These Low Calorie Turkey Meatballs provide a delicious alternative that doesn't sacrifice flavor. By using lean ground turkey and fresh ingredients, you can enjoy the comforting taste of meatballs while maintaining your health goals.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. The combination of herbs and spices adds depth to the meatballs, while the Parmesan cheese provides a rich, cheesy flavor without adding too many calories. You can serve these turkey meatballs with whole-grain pasta, on a bed of zucchini noodles, or even as a tasty appetizer for your next gathering.

Quick and Easy Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of these Low Calorie Turkey Meatballs is how easy they are to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. This makes them an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you need something nutritious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they make great leftovers that can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Consider making a double batch and freezing half for later use. They freeze well and can be easily reheated, making them a convenient option for quick meals. Simply pop them in the oven or microwave and pair them with your favorite sauce or side dishes for a wholesome meal in minutes.

Customizable for Your Taste

One of the standout features of this turkey meatball recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour or oats for a gluten-free option. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes, to give your meatballs an extra kick.

Additionally, these turkey meatballs can be served in various ways. Whether you choose to pair them with marinara sauce for a classic spaghetti dish, toss them in a salad, or serve them as sliders on whole-grain buns, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability makes them a fantastic staple for meal planning.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp olive oil

Mix all meatball ingredients until well combined.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Form Meatballs

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Bake Meatballs

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Prepare Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add marinara sauce and simmer.

Serve

Once meatballs are cooked, serve them with the marinara sauce.

Enjoy your healthy meal!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To ensure your meatballs are tender and flavorful, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Overworking the meat can lead to tough meatballs. Instead, mix until just combined, and gently form them into balls. This will help maintain a light texture while still holding together during cooking.

Another tip is to use a cookie scoop or your hands to create uniform meatballs. This ensures even cooking and consistent size, which is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior. If you're concerned about sticking, you can lightly grease your baking sheet or use parchment paper for an easy cleanup.

Serving Suggestions

These Low Calorie Turkey Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. For a classic Italian meal, serve them over whole-grain spaghetti with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Alternatively, you can serve them in a sub roll with marinara and melted cheese for a healthier take on a meatball sub.

For a lighter option, consider serving the meatballs on a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles. You can also serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks and a dipping sauce, such as marinara or a yogurt-based dip, making them a hit at parties or family gatherings.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken is a great alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with spaghetti, zoodles, or in a sub sandwich.

Low Calorie Turkey Meatballs

Enjoy a healthier take on traditional meatballs with these Low Calorie Turkey Meatballs. Perfect for a light meal or snack!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: Fresh & Light

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Meatballs

  1. 1 lb ground turkey
  2. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  5. 1 egg
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 1 tsp onion powder
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

  1. 1 cup marinara sauce
  2. 1 tsp olive oil

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 02

In a bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 03

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 04

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 05

While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add marinara sauce and simmer.

Step 06

Once meatballs are cooked, serve them with the marinara sauce.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 20g