Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs Flavorful and Easy Recipe

by Chloe on January 28, 2025

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? You’re in the right place! My Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs are not only packed with flavor, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients like ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, and teriyaki sauce, you’ll whip up a dish that family and friends will love. Let’s get cooking and add some excitement to your dinner table!

$- 1 lb ground turkey - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated I love starting with the main ingredients. Ground turkey is lean and easy to work with. Panko breadcrumbs add a nice crunch. Finely chopped green onions give a fresh taste. Minced garlic brings a savory depth. Fresh ginger adds a warm spice. - 1 egg, lightly beaten - 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for glazing) - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - Salt and pepper to taste Next, we mix in the additional ingredients. The egg helps bind everything together. Teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor. Sesame oil gives a nice nuttiness. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances all the tastes. - Sesame seeds - Extra green onions Finally, garnishes finish the dish. Sesame seeds add a delightful crunch. Extra green onions provide brightness and color. These small touches make your teriyaki turkey meatballs look and taste amazing! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step warms the oven for even cooking. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the meatballs from sticking and makes clean-up easier. Grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 pound of ground turkey. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of finely chopped green onions. Next, add 2 minced cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Pour in 1 lightly beaten egg, along with 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until combined well. With slightly damp hands, take portions of the mixture. Roll them into meatballs about 1-2 inches wide. Place these meatballs on the lined baking sheet, giving them space to cook evenly. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be fully cooked and show no pink inside. After the meatballs finish baking, remove them from the oven. Drizzle them with extra teriyaki sauce for flavor. Place them back in the oven for 5 more minutes. This step helps the sauce thicken and glaze the meatballs for a shiny finish. Once done, let the meatballs cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Then, transfer them to a serving platter. For a nice touch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Add extra chopped green onions for freshness and crunch. Enjoy your tasty teriyaki turkey meatballs! To get the best texture for your meatballs, mix the ingredients well. I like to use my hands for this. It helps blend everything nicely. Make sure the ground turkey and panko are evenly mixed. This gives the meatballs a great bite. When you handle the mixture, keep your hands damp. This also helps prevent sticking. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor. Use fresh garlic and ginger for a zesty kick. They bring out the best taste in your meatballs. For teriyaki sauce, I recommend brands like Kikkoman or Soy Vay. These sauces have a good balance of sweet and salty. They can elevate the flavor of your turkey meatballs. Shape your meatballs to be about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. This size helps them cook evenly. When baking, keep an eye on them. They should take about 20 to 25 minutes. To check if they are done, cut one in half. There should be no pink inside. This ensures they are safe to eat. Pro Tips Moisture Matters: To keep your turkey meatballs juicy, do not overmix the meat mixture. Just combine until ingredients are incorporated. Seasoning Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a dash of chili flakes to the mixture. Perfectly Shaped: Using a small cookie scoop can help you achieve evenly sized meatballs, ensuring they cook at the same rate. Glazing Trick: For a shiny finish, apply the teriyaki glaze during the last few minutes of baking, allowing it to caramelize without burning. {{image_4}} You can switch up the meat if you want. Ground chicken works great instead of turkey. It keeps the dish light and tasty. Another option is to go vegetarian. Use lentils or mushrooms to create a hearty meatball. Cooked lentils mash easily and have a nice texture. Mushrooms add a rich flavor and stay moist in the oven. Want to kick up the flavor? Add spices like sriracha for some heat. This gives your meatballs a nice kick. You can also try different glazes. Try honey, soy sauce, or even a bit of orange juice. Each glaze can change the whole taste of your meatballs. How you serve these meatballs can change things up, too. Serve them over noodles for a filling meal. You can also toss them on a salad for a lighter dish. If you love grilling, skewer the meatballs on sticks. This makes for a fun and tasty barbecue option. To store leftovers, let the teriyaki turkey meatballs cool down. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and safe to eat later. In the fridge, these meatballs last for about three to four days. Always check for any off smells before using them. For proper freezing, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one to two hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, thaw the meatballs overnight in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until hot. Making teriyaki turkey meatballs in advance is a smart choice. You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. This saves time on busy days. For the best results, shape the meatballs before cooking. You can also bake them in advance and store them. Just remember to glaze them right before serving for that fresh taste. Teriyaki turkey meatballs take about 20 to 25 minutes to cook in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake until the meatballs are firm and no pink shows inside. To ensure they are done, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This method gives you juicy meatballs every time. Yes, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce for quick prep. Look for a sauce that has a good balance of sweet and salty flavors. This can save you time; just pour it into the meatball mixture and glaze after baking. Many brands have great options, so choose one that fits your taste. I love serving these meatballs with steamed rice or stir-fried veggies. The rice absorbs the teriyaki sauce, making each bite flavorful. You can also pair them with a crisp salad or noodles for a fun twist. These combinations make a complete meal that everyone enjoys. These teriyaki turkey meatballs are not strictly keto-friendly due to the panko breadcrumbs. They add carbs to the recipe. If you're on a keto diet, you can replace panko with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. This keeps the meatballs low in carbs while still being tasty. You now know how to make delicious teriyaki turkey meatballs. We discussed key ingredients like ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings. I walked you through each step, from mixing to baking. I shared tips for better texture and flavor. You can also switch proteins and store leftovers easily. Try these ideas to enjoy flavorful meals. Now, you have the tools to create your own tasty variations without stress. Dive in and have fun cooking!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these meatballs are perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Versatile Serving Options: These meatballs can be served as an appetizer, over rice, or with stir-fried vegetables, making them suitable for any occasion.
Healthy Choice: Using ground turkey instead of beef makes this dish a leaner option while still being filling and satisfying.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb ground turkey

– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

I love starting with the main ingredients. Ground turkey is lean and easy to work with. Panko breadcrumbs add a nice crunch. Finely chopped green onions give a fresh taste. Minced garlic brings a savory depth. Fresh ginger adds a warm spice.

Additional Ingredients

– 1 egg, lightly beaten

– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for glazing)

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

Next, we mix in the additional ingredients. The egg helps bind everything together. Teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor. Sesame oil gives a nice nuttiness. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances all the tastes.

Garnishes

– Sesame seeds

– Extra green onions

Finally, garnishes finish the dish. Sesame seeds add a delightful crunch. Extra green onions provide brightness and color. These small touches make your teriyaki turkey meatballs look and taste amazing!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step warms the oven for even cooking. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the meatballs from sticking and makes clean-up easier.

Combine Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 pound of ground turkey. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of finely chopped green onions. Next, add 2 minced cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Pour in 1 lightly beaten egg, along with 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until combined well.

Shape and Bake the Meatballs

With slightly damp hands, take portions of the mixture. Roll them into meatballs about 1-2 inches wide. Place these meatballs on the lined baking sheet, giving them space to cook evenly. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be fully cooked and show no pink inside.

Glaze and Final Bake

After the meatballs finish baking, remove them from the oven. Drizzle them with extra teriyaki sauce for flavor. Place them back in the oven for 5 more minutes. This step helps the sauce thicken and glaze the meatballs for a shiny finish.

Cooling and Serving

Once done, let the meatballs cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Then, transfer them to a serving platter. For a nice touch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Add extra chopped green onions for freshness and crunch. Enjoy your tasty teriyaki turkey meatballs!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Meatball Texture

To get the best texture for your meatballs, mix the ingredients well. I like to use my hands for this. It helps blend everything nicely. Make sure the ground turkey and panko are evenly mixed. This gives the meatballs a great bite. When you handle the mixture, keep your hands damp. This also helps prevent sticking.

Achieving the Best Flavor

Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor. Use fresh garlic and ginger for a zesty kick. They bring out the best taste in your meatballs. For teriyaki sauce, I recommend brands like Kikkoman or Soy Vay. These sauces have a good balance of sweet and salty. They can elevate the flavor of your turkey meatballs.

Meatball Size and Baking Tips

Shape your meatballs to be about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. This size helps them cook evenly. When baking, keep an eye on them. They should take about 20 to 25 minutes. To check if they are done, cut one in half. There should be no pink inside. This ensures they are safe to eat.

Pro Tips

Moisture Matters: To keep your turkey meatballs juicy, do not overmix the meat mixture. Just combine until ingredients are incorporated.
Seasoning Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a dash of chili flakes to the mixture.
Perfectly Shaped: Using a small cookie scoop can help you achieve evenly sized meatballs, ensuring they cook at the same rate.
Glazing Trick: For a shiny finish, apply the teriyaki glaze during the last few minutes of baking, allowing it to caramelize without burning.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can switch up the meat if you want. Ground chicken works great instead of turkey. It keeps the dish light and tasty. Another option is to go vegetarian. Use lentils or mushrooms to create a hearty meatball. Cooked lentils mash easily and have a nice texture. Mushrooms add a rich flavor and stay moist in the oven.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to kick up the flavor? Add spices like sriracha for some heat. This gives your meatballs a nice kick. You can also try different glazes. Try honey, soy sauce, or even a bit of orange juice. Each glaze can change the whole taste of your meatballs.

Serving Style Variations

How you serve these meatballs can change things up, too. Serve them over noodles for a filling meal. You can also toss them on a salad for a lighter dish. If you love grilling, skewer the meatballs on sticks. This makes for a fun and tasty barbecue option.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, let the teriyaki turkey meatballs cool down. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and safe to eat later. In the fridge, these meatballs last for about three to four days. Always check for any off smells before using them.

Freezing Instructions

For proper freezing, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one to two hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the meatballs overnight in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until hot.

Meal Prep Suggestions

Making teriyaki turkey meatballs in advance is a smart choice. You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. This saves time on busy days. For the best results, shape the meatballs before cooking. You can also bake them in advance and store them. Just remember to glaze them right before serving for that fresh taste.

FAQs

How long do teriyaki turkey meatballs take to cook?

Teriyaki turkey meatballs take about 20 to 25 minutes to cook in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake until the meatballs are firm and no pink shows inside. To ensure they are done, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This method gives you juicy meatballs every time.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce for quick prep. Look for a sauce that has a good balance of sweet and salty flavors. This can save you time; just pour it into the meatball mixture and glaze after baking. Many brands have great options, so choose one that fits your taste.

What can I serve with teriyaki turkey meatballs?

I love serving these meatballs with steamed rice or stir-fried veggies. The rice absorbs the teriyaki sauce, making each bite flavorful. You can also pair them with a crisp salad or noodles for a fun twist. These combinations make a complete meal that everyone enjoys.

Are these meatballs keto-friendly?

These teriyaki turkey meatballs are not strictly keto-friendly due to the panko breadcrumbs. They add carbs to the recipe. If you’re on a keto diet, you can replace panko with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. This keeps the meatballs low in carbs while still being tasty.

You now know how to make delicious teriyaki turkey meatballs. We discussed key ingredients like ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings. I walked you through each step, from mixing to baking. I shared tips for better texture and flavor. You can also switch proteins and store leftovers easily. Try these ideas to enjoy flavorful meals. Now, you have the tools to create your own tasty variations without stress. Dive in and have fun cookin

Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs

Delicious turkey meatballs glazed with teriyaki sauce, perfect for a meal or appetizer.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 egg lightly beaten
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for glazing)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
to taste salt and pepper
sesame seeds and additional green onions for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, ginger, beaten egg, teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
With slightly damp hands, roll the mixture into meatballs about 1-2 inches in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked and no pink remains in the center.
Remove the meatballs from the oven and drizzle with additional teriyaki sauce. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes to glaze.
Let the meatballs cool slightly before transferring to a serving platter.
Garnish with sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions.

Notes

Serve with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Keyword appetizer, meatballs, teriyaki, turkey