Keto Turkey Meatballs are a delightful and nutritious dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb, ketogenic diet. This recipe combines ground turkey with flavorful herbs, almond flour, and Parmesan cheese, creating tender, juicy meatballs that are both satisfying and healthy. The simple preparation and versatile cooking options make these meatballs a go-to choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep staple.
The keto-friendly nature of this dish lies in its low-carb ingredients. By using almond flour or Parmesan cheese instead of traditional breadcrumbs, these meatballs maintain their moist texture while keeping the carbohydrate content minimal. This makes them an excellent option for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, protein-rich meal without compromising your dietary goals.
Turkey is a lean source of protein, offering numerous health benefits. It’s lower in fat compared to other meats like beef or pork, making it a heart-healthy choice. Rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and zinc, turkey supports overall wellness, from boosting metabolism to enhancing immune function. Combined with the high protein content, these meatballs are not only tasty but also contribute to a balanced and nutritious diet.
Keto Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
- Ground Turkey (1 lb / 450g):
- A lean, protein-rich meat that forms the base of the meatballs. Ground turkey is lower in fat compared to beef, making it a heart-healthy option.
- Almond Flour (1/2 cup):
- A keto-friendly alternative to breadcrumbs, almond flour adds a mild, nutty flavor while helping to bind the meatballs. It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
- Large Egg (1):
- Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together. The egg provides additional protein and helps achieve the desired texture.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, optional):
- Adds a rich, savory flavor and helps with binding. Parmesan is low in carbs and high in calcium, enhancing both taste and texture.
- Garlic Cloves, Minced (2 cloves):
- Fresh garlic infuses the meatballs with a robust flavor. Garlic also has antibacterial properties and supports immune health.
- Fresh Parsley, Chopped (1/4 cup, or 1 tablespoon dried parsley):
- Adds a fresh, herby taste and a pop of color. Parsley is also rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
- Onion Powder (1 teaspoon):
- Provides a subtle onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onions, keeping the meatballs tender and flavorful.
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon):
- A classic herb in Italian cuisine, oregano adds a slightly peppery, earthy flavor that complements the turkey well.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon):
- Enhances the overall flavor of the meatballs. You can adjust the amount to your taste preference or dietary needs.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon):
- Adds a bit of heat and depth to the flavor profile. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional):
- For those who enjoy a bit of spice, red pepper flakes add a mild heat that balances the savory flavors. This ingredient is optional based on your spice preference.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon, for pan-frying, optional):
- If you prefer pan-frying, olive oil is used to achieve a crispy exterior. It’s a healthy fat source that aligns with keto guidelines.
These ingredients combine to create flavorful, keto-friendly meatballs that are easy to prepare and perfect for a variety of meal options.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture of Meatball
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of ground turkey, 1/2 cup of almond flour (or grated Parmesan cheese), 1 large egg, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley), 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional).
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly using a fork or your hands until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper if baking.
- With slightly damp hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Step 3: Serve Keto Turkey Meatballs
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve them hot with your favorite keto-friendly side dish, like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Optionally, top them with a sugar-free marinara sauce or a creamy garlic dip for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious, low-carb meal!
Also, Try: Keto Meatballs Recipe
Enjoy your Keto Turkey Meatballs as a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both healthy and flavorful. These versatile meatballs are perfect for pairing with your favorite keto-friendly sides or enjoying on their own. Whether served fresh or reheated, they make a great option for any time of the day, keeping you on track with your keto goals without compromising on taste.
Keto Turkey Meatballs are a delicious and nutritious dish designed for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Made with lean ground turkey, almond flour, and a blend of herbs and spices, these meatballs are not only packed with flavor but also low in carbohydrates, making them an ideal choice for keto enthusiasts. The use of almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs keeps the carb count minimal while adding a subtle nutty taste that complements the savory turkey. These meatballs are versatile and can be baked or pan-fried, offering a convenient and healthy meal option that fits seamlessly into your dietary plan.
Beyond their keto-friendly profile, these meatballs also offer significant health benefits. Turkey is a lean source of protein, rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and zinc, which support overall health and well-being. This dish is not only satisfying but also contributes to a balanced diet, helping you stay full and energized throughout the day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner solution, Keto Turkey Meatballs provide a flavorful and wholesome option that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.
Keto Turkey Meatballs Nutrition Info
Keto Turkey Meatballs are a nutritious, low-carb meal option that fits perfectly into a ketogenic diet. Made with lean ground turkey and keto-friendly ingredients, these meatballs provide a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and minimal carbohydrates. The following nutrition table outlines the key nutritional values for a serving of this delicious dish, allowing you to easily track your intake while enjoying a flavorful, health-conscious meal.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Meatball, approx. 1 oz / 28g) | Per Recipe (16 Meatballs) |
| Calories | 80 | 1,280 |
| Total Fat | 5g | 80g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 16g |
| Trans Fat | 0g | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg | 640mg |
| Sodium | 150mg | 2,400mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2g | 32g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 16g |
| Sugars | 0g | 0g |
| Protein | 8g | 128g |
This table provides a comprehensive overview of the nutritional content, helping you make informed choices while adhering to your dietary goals.
Here is a consolidated nutrition table for each ingredient used in the Keto Turkey Meatballs recipe:
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Trans Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrates | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Turkey | 1 lb (450g) | 680 | 38g | 10g | 0g | 340mg | 280mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 80g |
| Almond Flour | 1/2 cup (48g) | 320 | 28g | 2.5g | 0g | 0mg | 0mg | 6g | 3g | 1g | 12g |
| Large Egg | 1 egg (50g) | 70 | 5g | 1.5g | 0g | 185mg | 70mg | 0.5g | 0g | 0.5g | 6g |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup (25g) | 110 | 7g | 3g | 0g | 20mg | 180mg | 1g | 0g | 0g | 10g |
| Garlic Cloves | 2 cloves (6g) | 10 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 1mg | 2g | 0.1g | 0g | 0.5g |
| Fresh Parsley | 1/4 cup (15g) | 4 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 0mg | 1g | 1g | 0g | 0.5g |
| Onion Powder | 1 teaspoon (2.5g) | 8 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 0mg | 2g | 0g | 0g | 0.2g |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon (1g) | 6 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 0mg | 1g | 1g | 0g | 0.3g |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon (3g) | 0 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 1,200mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon (1g) | 3 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 0mg | 1g | 1g | 0g | 0.1g |
| Red Pepper Flakes | 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) | 1 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 0mg | 0.5g | 0.5g | 0g | 0.1g |
| Olive Oil (for pan-frying) | 1 tablespoon (14g) | 120 | 14g | 2g | 0g | 0mg | 0mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g |
This table provides an overview of the nutritional content of each ingredient used in the recipe, allowing you to track your intake accurately.
Tips for Best Results
- Use Lean Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey to keep the meatballs moist without excess fat. If using extra lean turkey, consider adding a bit of extra fat, like olive oil, to prevent dryness.
- Mix Ingredients Gently: Combine the ingredients just until they are mixed. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs. Gently fold in the almond flour, egg, and seasonings for a light texture.
- Chill the Mixture: For better texture and easier shaping, chill the meatball mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before forming them. This helps the mixture hold its shape and reduces the likelihood of the meatballs falling apart during cooking.
- Even Cooking: Make sure to shape the meatballs into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. If baking, place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and ensure they’re spaced out to allow even browning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the meatballs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This helps avoid undercooking or overcooking.
- Add Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Adding a bit of cumin, paprika, or a splash of lemon juice can give your meatballs a unique flavor.
- Serve Immediately or Store Properly: Enjoy the meatballs fresh for the best taste and texture. If storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Keto Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl To combine all the ingredients.
- Baking sheet For baking the meatballs in the oven.
- Parchment Paper To line the baking sheet (optional, but helps prevent sticking).
- Skillet: If you prefer pan-frying or finishing the meatballs on the stove.
- Measuring cups and spoons For accurately measuring ingredients.
- Fork or Whisk - For beating the egg and mixing ingredients.
- Spatula or Tongs - For flipping or removing meatballs from the pan or baking sheet.
- Meat Thermometer: Optional, to ensure the meatballs are fully cooked.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or grated Parmesan cheese)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pan-frying, if not baking)
Instructions
- Mix ground turkey, almond flour, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and spices in a bowl until well combined.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the mixture into 1-1.5 inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Let rest, then serve hot with keto-friendly sides and sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can make them tough.
- Use Almond Flour or Parmesan: Almond flour is a keto-friendly alternative to breadcrumbs, and adding Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor and helps with binding.
- Consistent Size: Form the meatballs to a uniform size to ensure even cooking. Smaller meatballs cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Check Doneness: The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer if possible.
- Pan-Fry for Crispiness: For a crispier texture, you can pan-fry the meatballs in olive oil after baking, or skip the oven and cook them entirely on the stovetop.
- Freezing Option: These meatballs freeze well. Prepare a large batch and freeze extras for quick meals later. Reheat in the oven or stovetop for best results.
- Sauce Pairing: These meatballs pair wonderfully with sugar-free marinara, creamy garlic sauce, or even a spicy keto-friendly dip.
Delicious Topping Ideas
Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or beef for the ground turkey in the Keto Turkey Meatballs recipe. Here’s what you should consider for each:
- Ground Chicken:
- Flavor and Texture: Ground chicken has a milder flavor and leaner texture compared to turkey. It may be slightly drier, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or chicken broth to keep the meatballs moist.
- Cooking Time: The cooking time should be similar to ground turkey, but always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Ground Beef:
- Flavor and Texture: Ground beef will give the meatballs a richer flavor due to its higher fat content. This can make the meatballs juicier and more flavorful.
- Cooking Time: Beef may cook slightly faster, but the key is to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust cooking time as needed, especially if using a higher-fat beef.
In both cases, adjust the seasonings and cooking methods if necessary to achieve the desired flavor and texture.
How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your Keto Turkey Meatballs, consider the following tips:
- Add Extra Herbs and Spices: Incorporate additional herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary, and spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes to boost flavor. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can also add depth.
- Use Fresh Garlic and Onion: Finely chop or mince fresh garlic and onions instead of using powdered versions. Sautéing them before mixing into the meat can enhance their flavor and aroma.
- Incorporate Cheese: Adding grated cheese, such as parmesan or cheddar, can enrich the flavor and provide a savory, umami boost. Cheese also helps bind the meatballs and adds a delicious texture.
- Mix in Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil can add a burst of freshness and vibrant flavor. Chop them finely and mix them into the meatball mixture.
- Add a Splash of Lemon Juice: A small amount of lemon juice or zest can brighten the flavors and add a hint of tanginess. This complements the savory taste of the meatballs.
- Experiment with Sauces: Consider incorporating a low-carb sauce into the meat mixture or using it as a topping. Options like a low-carb BBQ sauce, marinara, or a tangy mustard can add extra flavor.
- Use Flavored Oils: Infuse your cooking oil with herbs or spices before using it. For example, using garlic-infused olive oil can impart a subtle garlic flavor to the meatballs.
- Mix in Finely Chopped Vegetables: Adding finely chopped vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, can introduce additional flavors and moisture. Make sure to sauté them first to enhance their taste.
By experimenting with these flavor-enhancing techniques, you can customize your Keto Turkey Meatballs to suit your taste preferences and make them even more delicious.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Keto Turkey Meatballs ahead of time. Here’s how to do it:
Preparation and Storage Tips:
- Prepare in Advance: You can mix and shape the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Once shaped, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate. This makes it easy to bake or cook them fresh when needed.
- Cook and Store:
- Refrigerate: Cooked meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze cooked meatballs. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat Properly:
- From the Refrigerator: Reheat meatballs in the microwave, oven, or skillet until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- From Frozen: Thaw frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through. If using the oven, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Making these meatballs ahead of time is a great way to save time and have a healthy, delicious meal ready to go.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!