Description
These Mini Turkey Meatballs are a nutritious and easy dinner option perfect for toddlers. Made with lean ground turkey, vegetables, and flavorful herbs, these bite-sized meatballs are baked to perfection, offering a healthy and delicious meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground turkey
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup finely grated carrot
- ¼ cup finely chopped spinach
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, grated carrot, chopped spinach, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper thoroughly until well incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
- Form meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter, ensuring uniform size for even cooking. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
- Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and lightly golden on the outside.
- Cool and serve: Allow the meatballs to cool slightly before serving them to toddlers. They can be enjoyed alone, with a favorite dipping sauce, or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Notes
- To make these meatballs gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
- Feel free to swap spinach for kale or other greens if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning to suit your toddler’s taste; reduce salt if desired.
- Ensure meatballs are cooked fully to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: turkey meatballs, toddler dinner, healthy meatballs, baked meatballs, kid-friendly meal, nutritious dinner
