Introduction:
Picture this: juicy, tender meatballs made from the finest turkey, delicately seasoned and baked to perfection. Now, drench them in a sauce so tantalizing that it seems like the heavens themselves blended butter, garlic, and the zest of sun-kissed lemons to create it. That, dear food lover, is the promise of our baked turkey meatballs. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience – an elegant dance of flavors and textures, ensuring every bite is memorable.
Our Baked Turkey Meatballs aren’t just an alternative to their beef counterpart; they’re a stand-alone culinary masterpiece. Light, yet satisfyingly meaty, these little wonders get their charm from the unique blend of herbs within. But the true star might just be the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce, a golden drizzle that adds an unexpectedly refreshing zing, ensuring every meatball isn’t just eaten, but celebrated.
Servings: 4 people
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- The Meatball Symphony: In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until all ingredients are well integrated. Form into small, golf-ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, slide in the tray of meatballs and let them bake for about 20 minutes, or until they’re golden and cooked through.
- The Magic Elixir – Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add in minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant. Now, stir in the fresh lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them to the skillet, gently tossing them in the sauce, ensuring each one is beautifully coated.
Serve hot, ideally with a side of fluffy rice or some crusty bread to soak up that delectable sauce.
Tips or Notes:
- For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream towards the end of the sauce preparation.
- If turkey isn’t your favorite, these meatballs can be adapted with chicken or even a blend of pork and beef.
- Serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or red chili flakes can elevate the dish to new flavor heights.
- Pair with a light white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, for a delightful dining experience.