What’s the best glaze for honey teriyaki turkey meatballs?

This homemade honey teriyaki glaze is the best—it’s sweet, tangy, and perfectly thick. Store-bought works, but homemade lets you adjust sweetness and saltiness to taste.

Can you make teriyaki turkey meatballs in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meatballs first, then add them to the slow cooker with the glaze. Cook on low for 2-3 hours.

How do you keep turkey meatballs juicy?

Don’t overmix, use breadcrumbs and egg as binders, and avoid overcooking. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C).

What sides go with honey teriyaki meatballs?

Steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, or a simple cucumber salad are perfect pairings.

Honey Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs – Easy & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner!

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Table of Contents: Honey Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs

A Dish That Steals the Show (and Hearts!)

Imagine tender, juicy turkey meatballs glazed in a sticky-sweet honey teriyaki sauce, caramelized to perfection. One bite, and you’ll be hooked—this dish is a weeknight hero that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, these Honey Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Fun fact: Did you know that teriyaki sauce originated in Japan but became a global sensation thanks to its irresistible balance of sweet and savory? This recipe takes that classic flavor and pairs it with lean turkey for a healthier twist that doesn’t skimp on taste.

If you loved my Crockpot Meatballs and Gravy – Easy, Tender, and Delicious, you’ll adore this recipe—it’s just as easy but with a bold, glossy teriyaki finish. Ready to make your dinner table the happiest place tonight? Let’s get cooking!

What Are Honey Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs?

Ever wondered why something so simple tastes so darn good? These Honey Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs are the answer. Picture this: ground turkey mixed with garlic, ginger, and green onions, rolled into bite-sized perfection, then smothered in a rich, honey-kissed teriyaki glaze.

Why “honey teriyaki”? Well, because honey adds a natural sweetness that balances the umami-packed soy sauce, creating a sauce so good you’ll want to drink it (no judgment here). And let’s be real—anything with “teriyaki” in the name is an instant win.

As the old saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but trust me, this dish will win over everyone’s heart. So, grab your apron and let’s turn ordinary turkey into something extraordinary!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Irresistible Flavor in Every Bite

The combination of juicy turkey, aromatic garlic, and ginger, plus that sticky-sweet glaze, makes these meatballs a flavor explosion. The honey teriyaki sauce caramelizes beautifully, giving each bite a glossy, finger-licking finish.

2. Budget-Friendly & Healthier Than Takeout

Skip the pricey takeout—this homemade version costs a fraction and tastes even better. Ground turkey is leaner than beef but just as satisfying, making this dish a smart choice for health-conscious foodies.

3. Versatile & Family-Approved

Serve these meatballs over rice, noodles, or even as an appetizer with toothpicks for a party. Kids and adults alike will gobble them up!

If you enjoyed my Shrimp Scampi Recipe: The Best Classic Italian-American Twist for Seafood Lovers, you’ll love how this recipe brings the same bold flavors with a fun, meatball twist. Ready to make magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

How to Make Honey Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs

Quick Overview

This recipe is foolproof: mix, roll, bake, and glaze. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have tender, saucy meatballs that taste like they came from your favorite Asian bistro.

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins

Key Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 2 green onions, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil

For the Honey Teriyaki Glaze:

– 1/3 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ginger powder
– 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix gently—don’t overwork the meat.
3. Form Meatballs: Roll into 1-inch balls (about 20-24) and place on the baking sheet.
4. Bake: Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden and cooked through.
5. Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, whisk soy sauce, honey, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Simmer 2 minutes. Stir in cornstarch slurry until thickened.
6. Coat & Serve: Toss meatballs in the glaze or drizzle generously. Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions.

What to Serve With Honey Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs

These meatballs are the star, but every star needs a great supporting cast! Serve them over steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For extra crunch, pair with stir-fried veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. Craving noodles? Toss them with udon or soba for a hearty bowl. And if you’re hosting, serve them as appetizers with toothpicks—they disappear fast!

Top Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

– Don’t Overmix: Gently combine meatball ingredients to keep them tender.
– Use Fresh Ginger & Garlic: They add the best depth of flavor.
– Double the Glaze: Trust me, you’ll want extra for drizzling!
– Broil for Extra Crispness: After baking, broil 1-2 minutes for a caramelized finish.

Storing and Reheating Tips

– Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw, reheat, and add fresh glaze.
– Reheat: Microwave or warm in a skillet with a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Final Thoughts

These Honey Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs are a game-changer—quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish delivers every time. Try it tonight, and watch it become a new family favorite!

For more easy dinner ideas, check out my Hot Honey Salmon Bites – The Sweet & Spicy Flavor Explosion You Need to Try or Shrimp Scampi Recipe: The Best Classic Italian-American Twist for Seafood Lovers. Happy cooking!

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