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A close-up shot of a pile of glistening BBQ Turkey Meatballs, generously coated in a rich sauce and sprinkled with fresh parsley.

BBQ Turkey Meatballs

BBQ Turkey Meatballs are a simple, protein-packed recipe made with lean ground turkey, savory seasonings, and a rich barbecue sauce coating. They bake up juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for weeknight meals, party appetizers, or meal prep lunches.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 meatballs
Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 170
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 1/2 pounds lean ground turkey
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  4. Form the mixture into 24 evenly sized meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until nearly cooked through.
  6. While the meatballs bake, combine the barbecue sauce and olive oil in a large bowl.
  7. Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to the bowl with the barbecue sauce mixture. Toss gently until evenly coated.
  8. Return the meatballs to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
  10. Ground turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Notes

These meatballs are excellent served with roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or tucked into slider buns. They also store well for meal prep and can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.