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A close up of gluten free turkey meatballs with cherry tomato pasta sauce and pasta noodles.

Gluten-Free Turkey Meatballs (with no Breadcrumbs)

Mallory
These delicious & tender Gluten Free Turkey Meatballs are packed with lean protein and bursting with flavor. They are a game changer if you are on a gluten-free diet or cooking for a friend or family member who is gluten-free. So roll up your sleeves and let's get cooking -- your new favorite meatballs are just a few steps away! 
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 20 meatballs
Calories 60 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 93% lean ground turkey
  • cup quick oats or rolled oats
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped or parsley
  • cup yellow onion, finely chopped or grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200°C). Prep a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with a cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking. Then finely dice or grate your onion, mince the garlic, and chop the fresh basil.
  • Combine all the ingredients including turkey, oatmeal, parmesan, basil, garlic, onion, egg, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper in a large bowl.
  • Mix to combine using either your hands, a wooden spoon, or a spatula. I use my hands for this part. Make sure all the ingredients are well distributed.
  • Scoop about 2 tablespoon of the meat mixture at a time and form into balls on the prepared baking sheet. Continue until you have 20 meatballs.
  • Use your hands to shape the meatballs, wetting your hands with water to make them less sticky. Brush or spray the tops with olive oil (optional). 
  • Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes. The meatballs are done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165℉ (75°C) with a meat thermometer. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the meatballs and the oven. 

Video

Notes

Expert Tips
  • If you prefer a finer texture, blend the oatmeal in a blender for about 15-30 seconds before adding it to the meatball mixture.
  • Don't overmix the meatball mixture because it will cause them to get tough. 
  • Use a cookie scoop to make evenly-sized meatballs to ensure they cook equally. 
Storage
Let the meatballs cool to room temperature before storing.
  • Refrigerator - store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop in a large skillet, in your air fryer,  in the oven at 350℉ (177°C) or in the microwave.
  • Freezer - store the cooked meatballs in a freezer bag or other freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. If stored in the freezer, I suggest freezing them before adding sauce. To defrost, put the meatballs in the fridge overnight until thawed and then reheat on the stovetop, in the oven at 350℉(177°C) or in the microwave. 
 
Additional Nutrition Information
While healthy means something different to everyone, these gluten-free turkey meatballs are a nutrient-rich option. They contain high-quality lean protein, heart-healthy fats that also support brain health and hormone health, and many other vitamins and nutrients including B vitamins, iron, zinc, calcium, and phosphorus. The added oatmeal provides dietary fiber to support gut health. This is a high-protein recipe and contains no added sugars.
Dietitian Tip
Turkey contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid that plays a role in the production of 2 hormones important for supporting brain health: serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin plays a role in your overall happiness and mood. Melatonin plays a role in sleep. Make easy recipes like these turkey meatballs to add more of this lean protein in your diet!
For more nutrition information and tips, visit mallorythedietitian.com. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! 😊 

Nutrition

Serving: 20 (1 meatball)Calories: 60kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 5gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgFiber: 0.2g
Keyword 30 minute, gluten free, high-protein
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