Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs Recipe

This tender juicy Trader Joes Turkey Meatballs Recipe is made with ground turkey, parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs, ready in 30 minutes. Pulling the golden-brown baked meatballs from the oven while they still sizzle slightly is deeply satisfying. I rely on this method whenever I need a quick, protein-packed dinner.

Why This Classic Works

I used to struggle with dry ground turkey until I started using milk-soaked breadcrumbs as a binder. This simple trick keeps the meat incredibly moist during the baking process.

The balance of garlic powder and grated parmesan mimics that signature store-bought flavor perfectly. I learned that baking them at a high heat creates a nice crust without drying out the center.

Trader Joes Turkey Meatballs Recipe Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

How To Make Trader Joes Turkey Meatballs Recipe

1. Prep The Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Soak The Breadcrumbs: In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and milk, letting them sit for 5 minutes to hydrate.
3. Mix The Ingredients: Add the ground turkey, egg, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley to the bowl.
4. Form The Meatballs: Gently mix everything together with your hands, then roll into 1.5-inch balls and place evenly on the baking sheet.
5. Bake Until Golden: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are lightly browned.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overmix: Handling the meat mixture too much will make the meatballs dense and tough once baked.
• Wet your hands: Keep a bowl of water nearby to dampen your hands, which stops the turkey from sticking while rolling.
• Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they hit exactly 165°F so they stay safe but juicy.

What To Serve With Turkey Meatballs

These pair beautifully with a simple spaghetti marinara or warm zucchini noodles for a lighter option. You can also stuff them into a toasted hoagie roll with melted provolone cheese for a hearty sandwich.

How To Store

Keep leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months if kept in a heavy-duty freezer bag.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead?

Yes, ground chicken works just as well and provides a very similar texture and flavor profile.

Should I pan-fry these instead of baking?

Baking is easier and less messy, but pan-frying in olive oil will give you a crispier exterior if you prefer.

Why did my meatballs fall apart?

Make sure you measure the breadcrumbs and egg properly, as they are essential for binding the mixture together.

Nutrition

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 8g
• Protein: 22g

Trader Joes Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Recipe by Nate Collins

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

30

minutes

Trader Joes Turkey Meatballs Recipe creates tender, juicy bites using fresh ground turkey, parmesan cheese, and simple spices in 30 minutes. This fast weeknight dinner staple perfectly replicates the popular store-bought version for a stress-free family meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 large egg

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Directions

• 1. Prep The Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• 2. Soak The Breadcrumbs: In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and milk, letting them sit for 5 minutes to hydrate.
• 3. Mix The Ingredients: Add the ground turkey, egg, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley to the bowl.
• 4. Form The Meatballs: Gently mix everything together with your hands, then roll into 1.5-inch balls and place evenly on the baking sheet.
• 5. Bake Until Golden: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are lightly browned.