Dinner

Easy Honey Garlic Turkey Meatballs Recipe

ByRafael Mansero April 24, 2026April 24, 2026

Introduction

These easy honey garlic turkey meatballs are packed with flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender turkey meatballs are coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that everyone will love.

A pile of small round meatballs covered in a shiny, thick reddish-brown sauce sits on a white plate. The meatballs are evenly coated and sprinkled with small white sesame seeds and chopped green onions, giving a fresh contrast on top. The sauce pools slightly around the base of the meatballs, adding a glossy layer beneath them. The background shows a white marbled texture that highlights the dish's rich colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey (93% lean works best)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
1 egg
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 green onion (finely chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, green onion, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
Step 2: Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs using a small scoop or your hands. Wetting your hands slightly will prevent sticking.
Step 3: Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F), about 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.
Step 4: While the meatballs cook, whisk together honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. For a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.
Step 5: Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat. Let them simmer together for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Use ground chicken or pork instead of turkey if preferred.
Serve over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to evenly distribute the sauce.

How to Serve

A white round plate filled with about fifteen glossy meatballs, each coated in a thick, shiny dark brown sauce that glistens under the light. The meatballs are arranged in a loose pile, showing their moist texture with the sauce dripping slightly onto the plate. Small white sesame seeds are scattered over the meatballs, adding contrast, and bright green chopped scallions are spread on top, giving a fresh pop of color. The background is a white marbled texture, making the rich colors of the dish stand out clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs in the sauce. Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.