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Turkey Meatball Skewers with Marinara Sauce

Elina James
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Turkey Meatballs
  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground turkey
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
  • For the Marinara Sauce
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • For the Skewers
  • Wooden or metal skewers (6–8 inches)
  • Optional: cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or basil leaves for threading

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture : In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and all seasonings. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined (don’t overmix — it makes meatballs tough).
  • Step 2: Form the Meatballs : With oiled hands, shape about 1 to 1½ tablespoon portions into round meatballs. You should get around 12–16 meatballs.
  • Step 3: Cook the Meatballs ; Option A – Bake (recommended): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange meatballs on a greased baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway.
  • Option B – Air Fry:
  • Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Air-fry for 12–14 minutes. Option C – Grill: Grill on medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
  • Step 4: Prepare the Marinara Sauce : Heat olive oil in a pan. Add marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in chili flakes and fresh herbs.
  • Step 5: Assemble the Skewers : Let meatballs cool slightly. Thread 3–4 meatballs onto each skewer. Add optional cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for color.
  • Step 6: Serve : Serve skewers with a bowl of warm marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan.