Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs are a freezer staple for anyone looking for a quick, protein-packed addition to their meals. Made with seasoned ground turkey, these meatballs are fully cooked and ready to heat in minutes. They’re versatile enough to pair with pasta, salads, or soups and are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
At $4.99 per bag, Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs are an affordable and convenient option for adding lean protein to your dishes without sacrificing flavor.
Review of Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs
Taste and Texture
Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs are surprisingly flavorful for a frozen option. The seasoning is well-balanced, with hints of garlic, onion, and herbs that complement a variety of dishes. The meatballs are tender but firm enough to hold their shape during cooking, and they don’t feel overly processed or rubbery.
While turkey can sometimes be dry, these meatballs retain a good amount of moisture, especially when heated properly. I found them satisfying both on their own and as part of a meal, though they benefit from pairing with a sauce or seasoning for added depth.
Convenience and Value
These meatballs are incredibly convenient—just heat and serve. They’re fully cooked, so you can prepare them in a variety of ways, including microwave, stovetop, or oven. The portion size is generous, making the $4.99 price tag a solid value for the amount and quality you get.
Overall
If you are looking to cut back on red meat, then this is a solid option without tasting too dry. Otherwise, I did prefer the more traditional taste of the other meatball options, but this was a solid go-to from time to time.
Ingredients
Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs are made with a straightforward ingredient list that includes:
- Ground Turkey: A lean protein source with a mild flavor.
- Seasonings: Garlic, onion, and herbs for a balanced, savory taste.
- Binders: Includes breadcrumbs for texture and consistency.
The clean ingredient list and gluten-free certification make these a wholesome choice for a variety of diets.
How to Use Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs
Basic Preparation Instructions
- Microwave: Place the desired number of meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on portion size.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small amount of water or sauce to prevent sticking. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake on a foil-lined sheet for 10-12 minutes.
Pair with Other Dishes
- Serve with marinara sauce and spaghetti for a quick and classic dinner.
- Add to soups, stews, or stir-fries for extra protein and flavor.
- Pair with a dipping sauce, like honey mustard or BBQ, for an easy appetizer.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Turkey Meatballs
The following are commonly asked questions:
Yes, the air fryer is a great option for reheating these meatballs. Cook them at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
The stovetop method is ideal for even heating, especially if you’re simmering them in a sauce. The microwave works well for quick reheating.
How to Use Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs
Basic Preparation Instructions
- Microwave: Place the desired number of meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on portion size.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small amount of water or sauce to prevent sticking. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake on a foil-lined sheet for 10-12 minutes.
Air Fryer Directions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F.
- Arrange the Meatballs: Place the frozen turkey meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they heat evenly.
- Serve: Once heated through, serve immediately with your choice of sauce, over pasta, or in your favorite recipe.
Pair with Other Dishes
- Pair with a dipping sauce, like honey mustard or BBQ, for an easy appetizer.
- Serve with marinara sauce and spaghetti for a quick and classic dinner.
- Add to soups, stews, or stir-fries for extra protein and flavor.
Recipe Suggestions
- Turkey Meatball Subs
Layer the meatballs in a hoagie roll with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella. Broil until the cheese melts. - Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Toss the meatballs with a homemade sweet-and-sour sauce and serve over rice for a quick, Asian-inspired meal. - Turkey Meatball Salad
Slice the heated meatballs and serve over mixed greens with your favorite dressing for a healthy, protein-packed salad.
Creative Uses for Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs
- Meal Prep Bowls: Combine with roasted vegetables and quinoa for an easy, make-ahead lunch.
- Flatbread Pizza: Slice the meatballs and use them as a topping for flatbread pizzas.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Chop the meatballs and mix with rice, cheese, and marinara, then stuff into bell peppers and bake.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs are a versatile and convenient freezer staple that can easily elevate a variety of meals. With their tender texture, balanced seasoning, and gluten-free recipe, they’re a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. While the flavor is mild, they pair beautifully with sauces and seasonings to create a dish that fits your preferences.
At $4.99, they offer excellent value for a quick and reliable protein source. Whether you’re making spaghetti and meatballs, adding them to soup, or getting creative with recipes, Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs are worth a try.
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Trader Joe's Turkey Meatballs
Product Name: Trader Joe's Turkey Meatballs
Product Description: Trader Joe's Turkey Meatballs are pre-packaged and pre-cooked meatballs.
Price: $3.99
Summary
Trader Joe's Turkey Meatballs are pre-cooked and just need to be heated.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Convenient: Fully cooked and ready to heat in minutes.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of dishes and sauces.
- Gluten-Free: Safe for those avoiding gluten.
- Affordable: At $4.99, it’s a budget-friendly option for lean protein.
Cons
- Mild Flavor: May require additional seasoning or sauce for bolder taste.
- Portion Size: May not be enough for larger families without additional sides.
Alek says
It nice TJ's offer different kinds of meatballs to appeal the different crowds. Personally I don't like frozen meatballs because often times they can give me an headache. Not sure why.
becomebetty says
Hey Alek! That is so interesting. There has to be something in it. Don't get me wrong, I prefer homemade 100% of the time. My next choice would be to go to a store called Durso's Pasta and Ravioli. Any local places that you like to get yours from or do you make them at home? Making meatballs at home for one person can sometimes be a bit of a pain. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Dag says
I like the convenience of these and I think they taste pretty good. I've used them to make meatball subs with sauce and also meatball quesadillas.
becomebetty says
Hey Dag! I had mine with a good pool of sauce too. Now those meatball quesadillas, those sound pretty phenomenal. Any recommendation on how to make them? Thanks so much as always for stopping by!
Dag says
I make them as Italian meatball quesadillas. I use a pizza sauce, usu ally fresh refrigerated. I add some extra garlic, pecorinno romano & sometimes dried or fresh basil to it. Spread it onto a big Trader Joe's tortillas, add sliced up the turkey meatballs and then top the whole thing with mozzarella cheese. Grill . Not as good nuked but works in a pinch.
becomebetty says
Hey Dag! Thanks so much for sharing. I completely understand nuking things. I make nachos in the microwave. It heats the chips and the cheese. Key thing is to do it in short intervals as to not break the cheese. Sounds delicious and healthier than if you had made it with beef. Thanks again!
Sharmila says
These are awful! They ruined tonight’s dinner and I usually love TJ!
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing Sharmila!
RICHARD S SCHNEIDER says
My wife and i BOTH get heartburn from these meatballs I cant eat them. And it doesnt happen with anything else! Nice website though!!!!!
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing!