Easy Buffalo Turkey Meatballs Recipe
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.
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.