The moment I popped these Best Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs into the oven, my kitchen filled with a mouthwatering aroma that drew my family from their respective corners of the house. It’s remarkable how such a simple blend of ingredients can evoke a sense of comfort and togetherness. As the sizzle of garlic mingled with the rich scent of Italian sausage, I knew I was about to serve up something special for our weeknight dinner.
These meatballs are not just easy to whip up; they’re also a versatile crowd-pleaser that can make both kids and adults smile. Whether nestled atop a steaming bowl of pasta or tucked into a hearty sandwich, each bite is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Plus, with ground turkey as the base, these meatballs offer a lean protein option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Trust me—once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!
Why are Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs a Must-Try?
Wholesome ingredients: With lean ground turkey and flavorful Italian sausage, these meatballs offer a guilt-free option that’s still delicious.
Easily customizable: Feel free to swap out herbs and spices to match your family’s taste preferences—perfect for culinary creativity!
Family-friendly: Great for picky eaters, these meatballs are tender and flavorful, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Quick preparation: They come together in no time, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Satisfying versatility: Serve them over spaghetti, in sub rolls, or on zucchini noodles for a wholesome twist. Don’t forget to check out our other meatball variations for even more options!
Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- Ground Turkey – Lean protein base; choose 93% lean for moisture without dryness.
- Italian Sausage – Adds flavor and a bit of fat; opt for mild Johnsonville for consistent seasoning.
- Onion – Diced for aroma and moisture; finely dice it to help meatballs keep their shape.
- Parmesan Cheese – Provides umami and moisture; freshly grated is best for flavor.
- Bread Crumbs – Binds the meat mixture; Progresso Italian style works well for texture.
- Parsley – Fresh herb that adds brightness; can substitute with other herbs if desired.
- Milk – Moisture enhancer for meatballs; evaporated milk or a non-dairy alternative can work.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for depth of flavor; fresh is preferable over jarred for vibrancy.
- Tomato Paste – Adds richness and sweetness; ketchup can be a quick substitute in a pinch.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients; use room temperature for better results.
- Salt – Essential for flavor; taste and adjust accordingly.
- Black Pepper – Provides warmth and slight heat; freshly ground is ideal.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing onion and garlic; substitute with other cooking oils if necessary.
- Tomato Sauce – Base for the cooking sauce; Hunt’s is recommended for a smooth finish.
- Crushed Tomatoes – Adds body to the sauce; select brands that don’t contain added sugar.
- Basil – For flavor enhancement; use fresh or dried based on preference.
These Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs are brimming with wholesome goodness and flavor, making them an unbeatable choice for your next family dinner!
How to Make Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs
Preheat the oven to 425°F and grease a baking sheet. This ensures your meatballs won’t stick and will bake evenly, creating a lovely golden brown exterior.
Combine all meatball ingredients in a large bowl: ground turkey, Italian sausage, diced onion, minced garlic, parmesan, bread crumbs, parsley, milk, tomato paste, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined—remember, no one likes tough meatballs, so take it easy!
Shape the mixture into 1.5 to 2-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they’re browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.
Prepare the sauce: In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, sautéing diced onion for about 5 minutes until fragrant. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it’s aromatic.
Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and basil. Let it simmer on low for about 10-15 minutes; this will deepen the flavors and create a luscious sauce.
Add the baked meatballs to the simmering sauce and cook together for 20-30 minutes, gently stirring occasionally. This loving combination allows the meatballs to soak up that delicious tomato goodness!
Optional: Serve with fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra parmesan for that finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs?
Fragrant and savory, these meatballs invite a delightful array of sides to complete your family meal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs, mopping up sauce with every bite.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the delightful tomato sauce, garlic bread adds a deliciously crunchy texture that complements the tenderness of the meatballs.
Zucchini Noodles: For a healthier twist, serve the meatballs on a bed of zoodles, adding freshness and an appealing crunch to the dish.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing bring brightness, perfectly balancing the hearty meatballs with a refreshing crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: A simple side, the vibrancy and crunch of steamed broccoli add a nutritious touch, enhancing both color and flavor on the plate.
Red Wine: A smooth red wine enhances the flavors while providing warmth and depth, making the dining experience feel extra special.
Feel free to mix and match these sides to create the perfect comforting feast for you and your family!
Expert Tips for Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs
- Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients for a tender texture.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: For better emulsification, always use room temperature eggs in your ground turkey sausage meatballs.
- Rest Before Sauce: Let the baked meatballs sit for a few minutes before adding them to the sauce. This helps maintain their shape.
- Gentle Stirring: Once added to the sauce, avoid stirring vigorously to prevent breaking the meatballs apart during cooking.
- Perfect Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender before adding the meatballs for a silky finish.
Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can enhance your meatball experience in unique and flavorful ways!
Ground Chicken: Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken for a lighter flavor variation that maintains tenderness.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give your meatballs a delightful kick that warms the soul. A hint of heat can elevate the overall dish, making it more exciting.
Herb Swaps: Experiment with fresh thyme or oregano instead of parsley for a new herbal experience, offering a refined flavor profile that’s equally enjoyable.
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate diced mozzarella into the meatball mixture for pockets of melted cheesy goodness—conveniently satisfying in every bite.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular bread crumbs with gluten-free options like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for those with dietary restrictions.
Veggie Boost: Mix in finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini to enhance the nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Sneaking in greens makes for nutritious yet delicious meatballs—they won’t even know!
Mediterranean Twist: Substitute with feta cheese and Mediterranean herbs like dill or mint for a refreshing twist that transports your taste buds to sunny shores.
Teriyaki Variation: Create an Asian-inspired dish by adding soy sauce and green onions to the meatball mixture. Serve with a sweet and savory sauce for a delicious fusion experience.
With these variations, you’re well on your way to creating a delightful array of Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs that can cater to every family member’s taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs are an absolute gem for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy evenings. You can prepare the meatball mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine all the ingredients as outlined and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. If you prefer, you can also shape the meatballs and freeze them for up to 3 months—just be sure to place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re set to cook, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. To keep them tender and juicy, avoid overmixing the meat and let them rest after baking before adding them to the sauce. Enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal effort on your part!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs
- Fridge: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld beautifully over this time, making each bite more delicious!
- Freezer: Freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet; once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.
- Reheating: For perfect texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or gently in the microwave. Add a splash of tomato sauce to keep them moist.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare and shape your Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs ahead of time, storing them in the fridge, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs Recipe FAQs
How should I choose my ground turkey for these meatballs?
Absolutely! When selecting ground turkey, I recommend going for 93% lean. It provides enough moisture while still being lean enough for a healthy meal. Avoid 99% lean options as they can lead to dry meatballs.
How can I store leftovers from the meatballs?
Very easy! Simply refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. With each passing day, the flavors will deepen and meld together, making each bite even tastier!
Can I freeze the meatballs, and if so, how?
Definitely! To freeze, first place the shaped meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re solid. This usually takes about 2-3 hours. After that, you can transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my meatballs fall apart during cooking?
No worries! To prevent your meatballs from falling apart, ensure you’re mixing the ingredients gently and not overworking the meat mixture. If they do break, adding them to the sauce with a little extra care will help them hold together while cooking. You can also keep them slightly larger when shaping for sturdier meatballs.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re making these meatballs for someone with allergies, be cautious of the dairy in the Parmesan and the breadcrumbs. There are dairy-free cheese options available, and you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate different dietary needs. Plus, ensure the Italian sausage you choose is free from any allergens specific to your guest.
Can I customize the ingredients in the meatballs?
Very much so! Feel free to swap herbs for personal preference; for example, you can use oregano or thyme instead of parsley. If you want a spice kick, add red pepper flakes to the mixture. It’s all about making it your own!
Ground Turkey Sausage Meatballs for a Flavorful Family Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and grease a baking sheet.
- Combine all meatball ingredients in a large bowl and mix gently until combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1.5 to 2-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Prepare the sauce by heating olive oil in a pot and sautéing diced onion until fragrant.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and basil, and let it simmer.
- Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and cook together for 20-30 minutes.