These Juicy Stovetop Turkey Meatballs are a lighter, protein-packed take on a classic comfort dish. Made with lean ground turkey and simple pantry spices, the meatballs are first seared for flavor, then gently simmered in marinara sauce until tender and juicy. No oven required—just one pan and big results.
Perfect for pasta nights, meatball bowls, or meal prep, this is an easy recipe that truly makes it count.
Why You’ll Love These Turkey Meatballs
- Stovetop-only recipe (no baking required)
- High-protein & lighter than traditional beef meatballs
- Minimal ingredients with big flavor
- Great for meal prep and freezing
- Versatile for bowls, pasta, or subs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Freshly shaved Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
1. Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, garlic powder, basil, onion powder, parsley, salt, black pepper, and egg. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Form the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into balls slightly larger than a golf ball and set aside.
3. Sear the Meatballs
Heat the avocado oil in a deep, heavy skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and sear on all sides until browned and developed in color.
4. Simmer in Marinara
Add your favorite marinara sauce to the skillet, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let the meatballs cook for at least 20 minutes, allowing them to finish cooking and absorb flavor from the sauce.
5. Serve
Serve the meatballs in a shallow bowl with plenty of red sauce and top with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese.
Make It Count Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing—work in batches if needed.
- Add heat with crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce.
- Freeze leftovers after cooking for up to 3 months.
- Serve over pasta, polenta, or zucchini noodles for easy variety.
Make It Count Kitchen 
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