If you’re craving a comforting, savory dish that combines lean protein with a luscious, velvety sauce, this Creamy Turkey Meatballs Recipe is an absolute winner. Picture perfectly seasoned turkey meatballs simmering gently in a rich and creamy sauce scented with garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of thyme — it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor and creating the perfect texture. From the tender ground turkey to the creamy finishing sauce, these essentials come together simply yet effectively.
- Ground turkey: The lean base that keeps these meatballs light but satisfying.
- Breadcrumbs: Adds structure so the meatballs hold their shape beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, umami richness to the mix.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything together perfectly.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the meatballs with a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Onion powder: Subtle sweetness that complements the garlic.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
- Olive oil: For browning the meatballs and adding a gentle fruity note.
- Butter: Creates a rich base for the creamy sauce.
- Flour: Thickens the sauce to luscious perfection.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce light.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich, silky, and indulgent.
- Dijon mustard: Lends a mild tang that brightens the sauce.
- Dried thyme: Adds a touch of earthy herbiness that ties it all together.
- Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh, colorful garnish.
How to Make Creamy Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender. Then, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs — aim for consistent sizes so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet and add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes total. This searing step adds beautiful color and a flavorful crust. Remove the meatballs and set them aside for the next step.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and whisk in the flour, cooking it for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme, and let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens and becomes silky.
Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce
Return the browned meatballs back into the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Cover and simmer for another 6 to 8 minutes so they cook through and soak up all those luscious flavors. Your kitchen will smell irresistible at this point!
How to Serve Creamy Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a perfect finishing touch. Not only does it add a pop of vibrant green color, but it also brings a fresh brightness that balances the creamy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or even a fluffy bed of rice. These sides help soak up every bit of the creamy sauce, turning every bite into a comforting experience that feels like a homemade feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the meatballs over creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrition. You can also stuff them into warm pita bread with some greens for an easy, satisfying sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover creamy turkey meatballs into an airtight container and refrigerate. They’re best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to keep the flavors fresh and the texture delightful.
Freezing
You can freeze the meatballs either cooked or uncooked. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen meatballs keep well for up to 3 months, making meal prep a breeze.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, then warm through to enjoy that perfect creamy texture just like fresh.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute and will give a similar light and tender result. Just be sure to watch the cooking time, as chicken can cook a bit faster.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine and use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The taste will be slightly different but still deliciously creamy.
How can I make the sauce lighter?
Try replacing half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter sauce. Add the yogurt off the heat to avoid curdling.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?
Definitely! Baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes until golden will give you a hands-off option, though you may miss out on some of the browned crust that adds extra flavor.
What’s the best way to prevent meatballs from drying out?
Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture and avoid high heat during cooking. Simmering the meatballs gently in the creamy sauce keeps them moist and tender throughout.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Creamy Turkey Meatballs Recipe — it’s cozy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to pull together on any night when you want a homey meal without fuss. I hope you give it a try and find it becomes one of your go-to dishes for comfort and satisfaction!
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Creamy Turkey Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy turkey meatballs recipe features tender, flavorful turkey meatballs cooked to perfection in a rich, savory cream sauce. Pan-seared and simmered in a velvety blend of chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and herbs, these meatballs make a comforting and easy weeknight dinner that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking meatballs)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs, then shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 6 to 8 minutes total. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for an additional 6 to 8 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the sauce is rich and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish if desired. Serve the creamy turkey meatballs warm over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a fulfilling meal.
Notes
- Serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a comforting meal.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the heavy cream.
- Ensure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Cook meatballs in batches to allow proper browning and avoid steaming.
