Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 pounds ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated yellow onion
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh sage
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: fried fresh sage leaves, for garnish
Gravy
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken or turkey stock
- 2 fresh thyme sprigs
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a large bowl, soak the panko breadcrumbs in 1/3 cup milk and let them soften for a few minutes to help keep the meatballs moist.
- Make Meatball Mixture: To the soaked breadcrumbs, add the ground turkey, minced garlic, eggs, grated Parmesan, grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, minced rosemary, sage, thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly but gently until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form Meatballs: Using clean hands or a small ice cream scoop, shape the mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, to ensure even cooking.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and grease lightly if needed. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides until golden, about 5-7 minutes total per batch. Remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Gravy Base: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux and cook for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add Stock and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the chicken or turkey stock, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the fresh thyme sprigs, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously until it thickens to a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Simmer Meatballs in Gravy: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and let them simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld.
- Final Seasoning and Garnish: Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Optionally, garnish with fried fresh sage leaves for a crispy, aromatic touch before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Using 93% lean turkey keeps the meatballs juicy without excess fat.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried herbs; reduce quantities by half accordingly.
- For a thicker gravy, cook it a few minutes longer; for thinner, add more stock.
- Frying the sage leaves adds beautiful presentation and a nice flavor contrast.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat