These ginger glazed turkey meatball bites are juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet and tangy glaze adds a tasty kick that everyone will love. Perfect for a snack or party treat!
Making these meatballs is a breeze! Just mix the turkey with ginger, shape them into balls, bake, and coat with glaze. They’re a hit at gatherings—everyone keeps coming back for more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the dish! Ground turkey is lean and flavorful. If you prefer, you can substitute ground chicken or even ground beef for a richer taste.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs. I often use regular breadcrumbs or panko for added crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a great option if you have dietary needs.
Fresh Ginger: This ingredient gives a warm, zesty flavor. You can use ground ginger in a pinch, but fresh ginger really shines here. If you can’t find it, try using minced ginger from a jar.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is my go-to to keep the flavor without it being too salty. For a gluten-free alternative, you can use tamari. Coconut aminos is another tasty substitute!
How Do I Get My Meatballs to Hold Together?
Keeping meatballs from falling apart can be tricky! Here are steps to help:
- Mix the meat carefully. Over-mixing can make them tough.
- Use breadcrumbs and egg as binders. They help hold everything together.
- Chill the meatball mixture for 30 minutes before rolling; it firms it up!
- Don’t skip the baking step—baking helps them hold shape without frying.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly shaped meatballs that are both delicious and presentable!
Ginger Glazed Turkey Meatball Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (white and green parts separated)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Ginger Glaze:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry to thicken)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes. Quickly mix the ingredients, bake the meatballs, and while they’re cooking, prepare the delicious ginger glaze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and the white parts of the green onions. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix, or the meatballs may turn out tough.
3. Form the Meatballs:
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them apart for even cooking.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and lightly browned on the outside. For an even finish, you can turn them halfway through baking.
5. Prepare the Ginger Glaze:
While the meatballs are baking, let’s make the glaze! In a small saucepan, mix the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Thicken the Glaze:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the glaze thickens, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once done, remove it from the heat.
7. Coat the Meatballs:
When the meatballs are ready, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the ginger glaze over them and toss gently to ensure each meatball is coated evenly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the glazed meatballs on a serving platter. Garnish with the green tops of the onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nice touch. These meatball bites can be served warm as appetizers or fun snacks. Feel free to add small picks or toothpicks for easy serving!
This recipe yields about 20-24 meatball bites, perfect for sharing with family and friends at your next gathering!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and will give you a slightly different flavor. Just make sure not to overcook it to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I Freeze These Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs! Simply prepare them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Serve with Ginger Glazed Turkey Meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile! Serve them as appetizers, over rice or noodles, or alongside a fresh salad. They also pair well with a dipping sauce if you like an extra kick!
