A few years ago, I was hosting a game day party and wanted to make something a little different from the usual wings. That’s when I came up with these Easy Buffalo Turkey Meatballs. They’re a healthier twist on classic buffalo wings, but with all the same spicy, tangy flavor. My family and friends loved them so much that they’ve become a regular at our gatherings. They’re quick to make, easy to serve, and always a hit. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun weeknight dinner, these Buffalo Turkey Meatballs are the answer. Let me show you how to make them—they’re a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 35mins |
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
I came up with this recipe after experimenting with ways to make game day snacks a little healthier. I wanted something with the bold flavor of buffalo wings but without the mess. Turkey meatballs were the perfect solution, and adding a homemade buffalo sauce made them irresistible.
Why Buffalo Turkey Meatballs?
These meatballs are perfect for anyone who loves the spicy, tangy flavor of buffalo sauce but wants a lighter option. They’re easy to make, great for parties, and can be served as an appetizer or a main dish. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so they’re healthier and less messy.
What is Buffalo Turkey Meatballs Made Of?
The meatballs are made with ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, and a blend of spices. They’re baked in the oven and then tossed in a simple buffalo sauce made with hot sauce and butter. They’re often served with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
What to Have with Buffalo Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with:
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic buffalo wing experience
- A side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
- Over a bed of rice or quinoa for a main dish
- With a simple green salad to balance the heat
Is Buffalo Turkey Meatballs Healthy?
Yes! Turkey is a lean protein, and baking the meatballs instead of frying reduces the fat content. The buffalo sauce adds flavor without too many extra calories. Just watch the portion size and the amount of butter in the sauce if you’re looking to keep it lighter.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or whole wheat)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
For Serving:
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or the meatballs will become tough.
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- While the meatballs are baking, make the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce, butter, and honey (if using). Heat over low heat until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a large bowl and toss them with the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery and carrot sticks on the side.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.
- If you prefer a milder sauce, use less hot sauce or mix it with a little barbecue sauce.
- Double the recipe and freeze the extras for quick meals or snacks later.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works just as well in this recipe.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge, or freeze the baked meatballs for up to 3 months.
Are these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.
Conclusion
These Easy Buffalo Turkey Meatballs are a healthier, lighter take on a classic game day favorite. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Give them a try—they might just become a new favorite in your home!
MORE RECIPES
Easy Buffalo Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or whole wheat)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or the meatballs will become tough.
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- While the meatballs are baking, make the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce, butter, and honey (if using). Heat over low heat until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a large bowl and toss them with the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery and carrot sticks on the side.