Sweet Chili Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

These sweet chili turkey meatballs are a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors, making for a delicious and healthy appetizer or main dish. Tender ground turkey meatballs are coated in a glossy, tangy sweet chili sauce that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp. sugar
• 1/2 tbsp. sambal oelek
• 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp. water
• 1/2 tbsp. tamari (or soy sauce or coconut aminos)
• 2 tsp. cornstarch
• 1 lb. 99% lean ground turkey
• 3 tbsp. panko bread crumbs
• 1 tsp. dried parsley
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400° F.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, panko bread crumbs, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, egg, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Step 3: Portion out 20 meatballs, each about 1 ounce, using a mini ice cream scoop or a kitchen scale. Place them on a baking sheet sprayed with your preferred cooking spray.
4. Step 4: Bake the meatballs for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. Combine the sugar, sambal oelek, rice vinegar, 1/4 cup of water, and tamari in a small pot. Bring the mixture to a low boil, stirring constantly.
6. Step 6: In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
7. Step 7: Slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the boiling sauce while stirring. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Once thickened and coating your spoon or whisk, remove the sauce from heat.
8. Step 8: When the meatballs are fully cooked, transfer them directly into the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
9. Step 9: Serve the sweet chili turkey meatballs topped with sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions. Offer toothpicks for easy eating.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture and flavor, add finely chopped onions or grated ginger to the meatball mixture.
• Adjust the amount of sambal oelek to control the spiciness to your preference.
• Use coconut aminos instead of tamari or soy sauce for a soy-free option.
• To make these meatballs gluten-free, substitute panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze meatballs and sauce together or separately for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs ahead and store them in the refrigerator before tossing them in the sauce. This makes assembly quicker when ready to serve.

What can I serve with these sweet chili turkey meatballs?

They pair well with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. They also work great as party appetizers.