Turkey meatballs are a tasty and lean option for any meal. Whether youre going for a low-carb approach or just want something less heavy, they offer plenty of flexibility when it comes to side dishes.
To make your meal really special, here are 17 amazing side dishes that pair perfectly with turkey meatballs.
The best side dishes to serve with turkey meatballs are mashed potatoes, jasmine rice, Worcestershire green beans, quinoa, scalloped potatoes, zucchini noodles, ratatouille, polenta, gluten-free pasta, Caesar salad, cornbread, sweet potato fries, sautéed spinach, apple coleslaw, chickpea salad, and tomato basil soup.
You cant go wrong with mashed potatoes. Theyre creamy, fluffy, and full of buttery goodness. You can also customize them any way you like. Add a touch of garlic or some cheese to make them even more delicious. Theyre the perfect side to go with turkey meatballs, especially if you have gravy to pour over the top.
Jasmine rice isnt just any rice; it has a unique, aromatic fragrance that sets it apart. The fluffy grains soak up any sauce youve got on your meatballs, making each bite a combo of flavors. Its a simple side dish but adds an exotic twist to your meal. If you want, you can even cook it with a bit of chicken broth for extra flavor.
For those watching their gluten, gluten-free pasta is a fantastic option. These days, you can find varieties that are just as tasty as the real thing. Toss it with a simple marinara or a garlic and olive oil sauce, and youve got a side dish that everyone can enjoy. It pairs excellently with turkey meatballs and keeps the meal inclusive.
These arent your regular steamed green beans. A splash of Worcestershire sauce takes them to the next level, adding a zesty, tangy flavor thatll have you going back for seconds. Sauté the beans with a bit of garlic and the Worcestershire sauce, and youve got a vibrant, tasty side dish that complements the meaty goodness of turkey meatballs.
Quinoa is like the cool cousin of grains, even though its technically a seed. Its high in protein, fiber, and all sorts of nutrients. Its nutty flavor and fluffy texture make it a great partner for turkey meatballs. Cook it in some chicken broth, add a dash of olive oil and some chopped parsley, and youve got a side dish thats as nutritious as it is tasty.
If youre in the mood for something indulgent, scalloped potatoes have got you covered. Thin slices of potato are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce until theyre tender and delicious. The richness of the dish pairs wonderfully with the lighter texture and flavor of turkey meatballs. Its comfort food at its finest.
If youre keeping an eye on carbs, zucchini noodles, also known as “zoodles,” are a great alternative. They offer a light, fresh counterpoint to the meatballs. A quick sauté with a little garlic and olive oil, and youve got a dish thats both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it adds a pop of green to your plate.
Want to add some color and nutrition to your meal? Ratatouille is a mixture of zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all simmered together in a rich tomato sauce. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the result is a hearty, veggie-packed side that holds its own next to the turkey meatballs.
Polenta is basically Italian grits, made from cornmeal. Its creamy, its dreamy, and its the perfect backdrop for turkey meatballs. You can add herbs, cheese, or even a bit of butter to make it extra flavorful. Its a versatile side that you can make as simple or as fancy as you like.
A crisp Caesar salad brings a fresh element to the table. Crunchy romaine lettuce, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a tangy dressing make for a classic thats always a hit. Add some croutons for extra crunch, and youve got a side dish thats both light and flavorful.
Turkey meatballs are a healthy and delicious meal option that can be served year-round However, finding the perfect side dishes to complement the flavors of turkey meatballs can be challenging In this article, I will share 21 of my favorite side dish ideas to serve with juicy, savory turkey meatballs.
An Overview of Turkey Meatballs
Turkey meatballs are made from ground turkey which is a lean, low-fat meat. Ground turkey often contains less calories and fat than beef or pork. Turkey meatballs can be seasoned with Mediterranean flavors like garlic, parsley and oregano. They can also be made using Italian seasoning for more of a classic meatball flavor.
The meat itself has a mild flavor so turkey meatballs go well with bold, intensely flavored sauces like marinara or creamy pesto Their texture is delicate so sides with contrasting crispy, crunchy or smooth textures complement them nicely
When serving turkey meatballs for dinner, lunch or appetizers, choose side dishes that add color, flavor and textures to balance out the meal.
21 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Turkey Meatballs
Here are my top recommendations for flavorful, easy-to-make side dishes that pair wonderfully with turkey meatballs
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a perfect match for turkey meatballs. The smooth, rich potatoes complement the texture of the meatballs. Garlic mashed potatoes or cheesy potatoes also pair well.
2. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf, with its fluffy grains and savory flavor, soaks up any sauce on the meatballs beautifully. Try making it with chicken or vegetable broth for extra aroma.
3. Pasta
Forget boring old spaghetti, try pasta in unique shapes like farfalle or rotini with your turkey meatballs. You can also use gluten-free or whole grain pasta options.
4. Roasted Vegetables
Roasting cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, carrots or other veggies adds a pop of color. Toss them in olive oil, garlic and herbs for deep flavor.
5. Green Salad
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing balances the meatiness of turkey meatballs. Top it with crunchy croutons for texture.
6. Bread Rolls
Warm, soft bread rolls are perfect for dipping in any sauce on your plate. Choose whole grain rolls for more fiber and nutrients.
7. Quinoa
Protein-packed quinoa has a slightly nutty taste that pairs well with turkey meatballs. Toss it with chopped fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
8. Israeli Couscous
Israeli couscous has larger grains than traditional couscous so it stands up well when mixed with sauce. Its mild taste lets the meatballs shine.
9. Polenta
Creamy, smooth polenta is a refined side for turkey meatballs. For added richness, stir in Parmesan cheese and butter.
10. Ratatouille
All the veggies in ratatouille – eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, peppers – pair nicely with turkey meatballs for a Mediterranean meal.
11. Zucchini Noodles
For a lighter, low-carb option, try spiralized zucchini noodles tossed with your favorite sauce and turkey meatballs.
12. Cauliflower Rice
Riced cauliflower is a healthy substitute for starchy white rice. Sauté it with garlic and olive oil for a flavor boost.
13. Potatoes Au Gratin
Creamy, cheesy potatoes au gratin are indulgent but oh-so-tasty with turkey meatballs. The potato slices get perfectly melty and crisp.
14. Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potato fries are vibrant and naturally sweet – a nice change from regular fries with turkey meatballs.
15. Succotash
This corn, lima bean and red pepper medley adds nutrition and a pop of color to your plate. It’s especially good in summer.
16. Bacon Brussels Sprouts
For a heartier side, try Brussels sprouts sautéed with bacon, garlic and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
17. Greek Salad
A bright Greek salad with feta, olives, cucumbers and tomatoes served alongside turkey meatballs is fresh and flavorful.
18. Garlic Bread
Warm, crusty garlic bread is simple but perfect for dipping in any sauce from your turkey meatballs.
19. Corn on the Cob
In summer, cook corn on the grill to serve alongside turkey meatballs for a fun, tasty meal.
20. Caprese Salad
Bite-sized fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes and basil drizzled with olive oil and balsamic make a delicious caprese salad.
21. Baked Beans
Finally, don’t forget classic homemade or canned baked beans, which pair nicely with the savory flavors of turkey meatballs.
Tips for Making the Best Turkey Meatballs
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Use a mix of light and dark ground turkey for better flavor and texture.
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Add breadcrumbs or panko to help keep the meatballs moist and hold their shape.
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Season with garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, basil, Italian seasoning or your favorite herbs and spices.
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Quickly pan fry or bake the meatballs until browned on the outside and cooked through.
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Simmer in your favorite pasta sauce, marinara or gravy for extra flavor.
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Garnish with grated Parmesan, chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.
Enjoy Flavorful, Satisfying Meals
With so many diverse side dish options, from hearty potatoes or rice to bright, fresh salads and veggies, you can serve up turkey meatballs any night of the week. Vary the sides based on what’s in season or your cravings.
Pairing savory, herbed turkey meatballs with complementary sides results in well-rounded, delicious meals the whole family will love. So get creative with mix-and-match side dishes, and enjoy flavorful meatballs all year long.
1 Apple Coleslaw
Apple coleslaw brings a sweet and tangy crunch to the meal. Thinly sliced apples, shredded cabbage, and a creamy dressing make for a refreshing side that’s perfect with turkey meatballs. Its a unique twist on a classic side.
If you’re in the mood for soup, a tomato basil version is a great choice. It’s warm, comforting, and the flavors are a natural fit with turkey meatballs. Plus, it’s a great way to start the meal if you’re serving multiple courses.
1 Sautéed Spinach
Sautéed spinach is a quick and nutritious side that can be ready in minutes. A little garlic, some olive oil, and a dash of salt are all you need to turn this leafy green into a tasty side dish. It brings a burst of color and nutrition to your turkey meatball dinner.
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FAQ
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