Buffalo Turkey Meatballs Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because these buffalo turkey meatballs are packed with flavor and provide a healthier twist on a classic comfort food, making them perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Plus, the combination of spicy buffalo sauce and the potential coolness of optional ranch dressing makes my taste buds do a little happy dance!

Buffalo Turkey Meatballs are a hit in my kitchen, and they’re very much loved by my people. With 1 pound of ground turkey, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, and, yes, a pound of flavor from garlic and onion powder, these meatballs deliver everything you want from the dish without making you feel like you shouldn’t be eating it.

Slather them with buffalo sauce (using enough for flavor without going crazy and using too much) and serve up!

Ingredients

Turkey that is ground: Lean protein source, fat low, muscle health strong.

Breadcrumbs: Provides texture, binds meatballs, is a source of carbohydrates.

Fresh flavor.

Green onions are rich in vitamins A and C.

They are mild, crunchy vegetables that add a fresh bite to many dishes.

They are often used as a garnish.

Their flavor is lighter than that of regular onions.

Even if you cannot find green onions, you can use leeks, scallions, or regular onions in their place.

Powdered garlic: Boosts and deepens umami notes in any dish and (like fresh garlic, which it really is, just dried and powdered) brings heart-healthy (and otherwise health-ful) benefits to the table too.

Buffalo sauce is made with hot sauce and butter, giving it a spicy kick and making it rich in flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Optional: Ranch dressing for serving
• Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat while you prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey, 1 1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup chopped green onions, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add 1 large egg and mix until well combined.

3. Mold the mixture into meatballs that are 1 to
1.5 inches in size, and put them on the baking sheet that has been prepared, allowing some space between each meatball.

4. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the buffalo sauce.

5. Add the olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium. Add the meatballs a few at a time, so they don’t crowd the pan. Cook them, turning occasionally, until nicely browned all over, about 6-8 minutes.

6. Return the browned meatballs to the baking sheet.

7. A pastry brush or spoon can be used to apply the buffalo sauce mixture generously to each meatball.

8. Cook the meatballs in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are done and the internal temperature measures 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).

9. Take the meatballs from the oven and allow them to sit for a couple of minutes.

10. Optional ranch dressing can be served with the buffalo turkey meatballs. Chopped parsley, if desired, can be used as garnish. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Measuring cups and spoons
6. Small bowl
7. Large skillet
8. Stove
9. Pastry brush or spoon
10. Meat thermometer

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of meat?Indeed, you can switch out ground turkey for either ground chicken or beef. Just know that doing so might slightly shift the flavor and texture of whatever you’re making.
• Is there a substitute for buffalo sauce?If you don’t have buffalo sauce on hand, you can mix hot sauce with melted butter to create a similar condiment.
• How do I make these meatballs in advance?The meatball mixture can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?Certainly, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until completely cooked.
• How do I ensure the meatballs stay moist?Don’t mix the ingredients too much, and be sure to add the egg and the breadcrumbs. They are important for moisture retention.
• How can I adjust the spiciness of the meatballs?Modify how much buffalo sauce to suit your taste, or use a milder sauce if preferred.
• What can I serve with buffalo turkey meatballs?The dressings ranch and blue cheese complement them nicely, and they can be served on a lettuce bed, alongside celery sticks, for a well-balanced dinner.

Substitutions and Variations

You can use ground chicken instead of ground turkey, but the flavor will be milder. If you are looking for a lighter, more delicate flavor, go with ground chicken.
Almond flour can be used in place of breadcrumbs as a gluten-free alternative.
Chives or shallots can be used as substitutes for green onions when finely chopped.
Avocado oil can be used in place of olive oil for a different flavor profile.
A homemade version of Buffalo sauce can be made by mixing hot sauce with melted butter.

Pro Tips

1. Chill the Mixture Before forming the meatballs, place the mixed turkey mixture in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This will make the mixture easier to handle and form into evenly sized meatballs.

2. Uniform Meatballs Use a small ice cream scoop or a tablespoon to ensure all meatballs are the same size. This will help them cook evenly, both on the stovetop and in the oven.

3. Browning Technique When browning the meatballs in the skillet, resist the urge to move them too often. Let them brown on one side before turning to get a better crust, which adds flavor and texture.

4. Buffalo Sauce Adjustment If you prefer a milder flavor, you can adjust the buffalo sauce by mixing in more melted butter. For heat enthusiasts, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra kick.

5. Resting Time After removing the meatballs from the oven, let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them more tender and flavorful when serving.