Buffalo Turkey Meatballs Recipe Easy Party Bowl for Game Day Fun
These buffalo turkey meatballs combine the zesty kick of buffalo sauce with lean turkey, making them a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. Perfect for game days, parties, or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 20 meatballs (about 4 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) ground turkey (preferably lean, 93% lean works great)
- 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs (panko adds nice texture; use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (15g) finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
- 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional, for dipping)
- Celery sticks (for serving)
- Extra chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch (2.5cm) meatballs, about 20 total, and place evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and browned. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- While baking, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, honey, and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth.
- Transfer cooked meatballs to a large bowl, pour buffalo sauce over them, and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley or green onions, with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks on the side.
Notes
Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Toss meatballs in sauce while warm for better coating. For crispier meatballs, broil for 2-3 minutes after saucing. Let meatballs rest 5 minutes before serving to meld flavors. Can substitute ground turkey with chicken, lean beef, or bison. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for gluten-free version. Air frying at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes is an alternative cooking method.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 5 meatballs
- Calories: 220
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 22
Keywords: buffalo turkey meatballs, game day recipe, party food, spicy meatballs, healthy meatballs, buffalo sauce, easy appetizer