Asian Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles

Juicy Asian turkey meatballs are packed with flavor in every bite thanks to the addition of lime, soy sauce, and fresh ginger. Serve these over zoodles or with stir-fried veggies to make them a meal!

While breadcrumbs are a traditional binder for meatballs, these Asian turkey meatballs have a slight twist—they use cooked quinoa instead! This works just as well, it’s naturally gluten-free, and it lets all the Asian flavors in this recipe take center stage.

What You’ll Need

Scroll down to the recipe card to find the ingredient quantities and recipe instructions.

• Organic ground turkey 
• Cooked quinoa – Or panko breadcrumbs if you prefer. Here’s how to cook quinoa.
• Green onions – Mince these so they incorporate evenly into the meatballs.
• Carrot – Grate this using the smallest hole on a box grater.
• Ginger – Fresh ginger is much more pungent than dried.
• Lime juice
• Soy sauce – Or tamari for a gluten-free option.

How to Make Asian Turkey Meatballs

• Make the meat mixture. Use your hands to combine all the ingredients.
• Form meatballs. Roll the mixture into meatballs.
• Bake. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in a 375ºF oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165ºF.

Tips for Success

• Don’t over-mix the meat. Over-mixing can result in tough and dense meatballs. Use a light hand when combining the ingredients.
• Use an ice cream scoop or spoon for consistent sizing. This will help ensure even cooking of the meatballs so they’re done at the same time.
• Add heat. If you like spicy food, add some sriracha or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

My Favorite Ways to Use Asian Turkey Meatballs

• Stir-fries. Stir fry the vegetables and sauce and then add the meatballs to the pan for about a minute to coat them in sauce before serving. This rainbow vegetable quinoa stir fry is delicious!
• Rice or quinoa bowls. Layer cooked rice with your choice of vegetables, then top with the Asian turkey meatballs and drizzle with your favorite sauce. Here’s some inspiration: teriyaki quinoa bowls.
• Lettuce wraps. Serve the meatballs in large lettuce leaves with shredded carrots, cucumber, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a light meal.
• Soups. Add these meatballs to a bowl of hot broth (like this Instant Pot chicken bone broth) with rice noodles and greens for a satisfying soup.
• Party appetizer. Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve alongside an Asian dipping sauce like sweet chili for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Noodles. Serve your meatballs over peanut noodles (as pictured here), almond-sesame soba noodles, or zoodles.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Asian turkey meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in a skillet, 350ºF oven, or microwave until they reach 165ºF on an instant read thermometer.

Can I Freeze This Recipe?

To freeze Asian turkey meatballs, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat according to the instructions above.

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