Easy Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Meatballs
A healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, these Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Meatballs are infused with vibrant flavors, making them perfect for weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

There’s something comforting about a plate of homemade meatballs, especially when they are infused with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. These Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Meatballs are not just delicious; they’re also a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, making them a go-to choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. By incorporating ground turkey and sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe brings a unique blend of taste and nutrition that will tantalize your taste buds. If you’re looking for a flavorful option for your next meal, consider trying out these hearty meatballs, which pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or your favorite side dish. You may also find Creamy Vegan Sun Dried Tomato Pasta useful.
Why make this recipe
When you make these Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Meatballs, you’re choosing a dish that’s not only flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family meals because it comes together in under an hour. Plus, the combination of lean turkey and nutrient-rich sun-dried tomatoes makes it a healthy option without sacrificing taste. You may also find Easy Mediterranean Turkey Skillet useful.
How to make Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Meatballs
Let’s explore the simple process behind creating these tasty meatballs. Follow along as we break it down step by step, ensuring that you know exactly what to expect along the way.
Gather these items
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
FOR THE MEATBALLS:
- Turkey breast or ground turkey: 680 g / 1.5 lb
- Small onion, diced: 50 g / 1.8 oz
- Egg: 1 large
- Grated Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup / 30 g / 1 oz
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Pepper: ¼ tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Powdered garlic: ¼ tsp
- Fresh basil branches: 2-3
- Sun-dried tomatoes, diced: ¼ cup / 40 g / 1.4 oz
FOR THE SAUCE:
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons / 30 ml / 1 fl oz
- Small onion, diced: 50 g / 1.8 oz
- Garlic cloves: 1-2, minced
- Sun-dried tomatoes, diced: ¼ cup / 40 g / 1.4 oz
- Heavy whipping cream: 1.5 cups / 360 ml / 12 fl oz
- Water: 1 cup / 240 ml / 8 fl oz
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Pepper: ¼ tsp
- Grated Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup / 30 g / 1 oz
- Fresh basil leaves: ½ cup / 20 g / 0.7 oz
Directions
Preparing the Meatballs:
Start by blending the turkey breast meat or ground turkey with diced onion, egg, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, paprika, powdered garlic, fresh basil branches, and diced sun-dried tomatoes in a food processor. Be careful to pulse just enough to mix; you don’t want a paste.
Once mixed, line a baking tray with parchment paper and form the mixture into 16 to 18 equal-sized meatballs.
Place the meatballs onto the tray and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Making the Sauce:
While the meatballs bake, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion caramelizes.
If the onion sticks, just add a splash of water and stir.
When caramelized, stir in the diced sun-dried tomatoes and cook for a minute.
Pour in the heavy whipping cream, water, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Gently add the baked meatballs into the sauce, along with the fresh basil leaves, and cover the skillet. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve these delightful meatballs hot, garnished with extra fresh basil if desired. You can complement them perfectly with sautéed vegetables or fresh salad. They also go well with cauliflower rice or zucchini bread for a wholesome meal!

Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Meatballs
- Prep
- 20 MIN
- Cook
- 35 MIN
- Total
- 55 MIN
- Serves
- 4
01Ingredients
For the Meatballs
For the Sauce
02Method
- Preparing the Meatballs
- Making the Sauce
Tap a step when it's done. The next one lights up.
0 OF 8 DONE03Recipe notes
- 01To keep leftovers fresh, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in oven or microwave.
How did it turn out?
No ratings yet. Tap a star to be the first.
Snap a photo and tag @recipe_smoke1 so I can see how yours came out.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Meatballs are versatile and pair well with a range of sides. A fresh, green salad adds a nice crunch, while roasted vegetables can enhance the meal’s flavors. For a healthy twist, consider serving them over cauliflower rice or with a side of zoodles—zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Meatballs is easy! Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, ensuring a delicious meal without the hassle.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Replace half of the turkey with ground beef for a different texture, or add some chopped spinach or other vegetables into the mixture for added nutrition. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free option, substitute the Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative.
FAQs
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
You can expect to spend about 15-20 minutes preparing the ingredients, and another 30-35 minutes for baking and cooking the sauce.
Can I use different meat?
Yes! While this recipe calls for turkey, you could use lean ground chicken or beef as a substitute.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make these meatballs gluten-free, be sure to use a gluten-free substitute for the bread crumbs if you choose to add them.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Meatballs are a fantastic addition to your meal rotation, offering a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. For more ideas, check out Sun-dried Tomato & Feta Meatballs and my Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki. Enjoy the process and the scrumptious results!
Crockpot & Slow Cooker
Dinner Bowls
Casseroles
