Baked Turkey Meatballs in Lemon Butter Sauce
Table of Contents
Baked Turkey Meatballs in Lemon Butter Sauce
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience with this recipe for Baked Turkey Meatballs in Lemon Butter Sauce. Imagine juicy turkey meatballs that are baked to perfection and then smothered in a tangy lemon butter sauce. This dish is a harmonious blend of savory and zesty flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are some reasons why this Baked Turkey Meatballs in Lemon Butter Sauce recipe is a must-try:
– The combination of turkey meatballs and lemon butter sauce creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
– Baking the meatballs instead of frying makes this dish healthier without compromising on taste.
– The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
– It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, appetizer, or even as a party snack.
Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup butter
– Juice of 2 lemons
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions to bring this dish to life:
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Place the baked meatballs in the sauce, turning to coat evenly.
8. Serve the meatballs drizzled with the lemon butter sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Turkey Meatballs in Lemon Butter Sauce are delicious served over cooked pasta or with a side of steamed vegetables. Pair them with a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can use ground chicken instead of turkey. Additionally, you can add a touch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
– For extra flavor, you can sauté the garlic before adding it to the meatball mixture.
– Don’t skip the lemon zest in the sauce, as it adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish.
FAQ
Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs?
A: Absolutely! Once baked, let the meatballs cool completely before freezing them. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
A: While fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried parsley if that’s what you have on hand.
Q: How can I reheat the meatballs?
A: To reheat the meatballs, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake in a 350°F (180°C) oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use store-bought lemon butter sauce?
A: While homemade sauce is recommended for the best flavor, you can use store-bought lemon butter sauce in a pinch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baked Turkey Meatballs in Lemon Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of turkey with the tangy brightness of lemon. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or an impressive party appetizer, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of savory and citrusy goodness in every bite!
Baked Turkey Meatballs in Lemon Butter Sauce
Enjoy juicy turkey meatballs baked to perfection and smothered in a tangy lemon butter sauce. This dish offers a harmonious blend of savory and zesty flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup butter
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Place the baked meatballs in the sauce, turning to coat evenly.
- Serve the meatballs drizzled with the lemon butter sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.
