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BBQ Turkey Meatball Skewers - Easy, Juicy, and Perfect for Grilling

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean is ideal)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup grated yellow onion (with juices)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1–2 tbsp milk or water (if needed for moisture)
  • 3/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
  • Red onion, bell peppers, or pineapple chunks (optional, for skewering)
  • Metal or soaked wooden skewers

Method
 

  1. Prep the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
  2. Make the meat mixture: In a bowl, combine ground turkey, panko, egg, grated onion, garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. If the mixture feels dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or water.
  3. Form the meatballs: Lightly oil your hands and roll 16–20 small meatballs (about 1 to 1.25 inches in diameter). Keeping them small helps them cook evenly.
  4. Skewer them: Thread 3–4 meatballs per skewer, alternating with red onion, bell pepper, or pineapple if you like. Brush lightly with olive oil.
  5. Grill method: Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 375–400°F/190–205°C). Grill skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until almost cooked through.
  6. Glaze and finish: Brush meatballs with BBQ sauce and grill 2–3 more minutes, turning and glazing again. Cook until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
  7. Oven method: Heat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place skewers on a parchment-lined sheet. Bake 10 minutes, brush with BBQ sauce, then bake 5–7 more minutes until they reach 165°F (74°C). Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization, watching closely.
  8. Serve: Brush with a final gloss of BBQ sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions and serve with extra sauce on the side.