Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs

$To make Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs, you need the following items: - 1 pound ground turkey - 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped - 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/4 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 egg - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil, for pan frying These ingredients come together to create a tasty and healthy dish. The turkey offers lean protein, while spinach adds vitamins. Feta cheese gives a rich flavor that pairs well with the herbs. You can add extra flavor or change the texture of your meatballs. Here are some ideas: - Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro - Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick - Chopped onion for added moisture - Grated zucchini or carrot for extra veggies Feel free to mix and match these options based on your taste. They all create different flavors and textures. Each serving of Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs offers a balanced meal. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving: - Calories: Approximately 250 - Protein: 25g - Carbohydrates: 10g - Fat: 12g These meatballs are a great choice for a healthy dinner. They are low in carbs and high in protein, making them suitable for many diets. Enjoy making these with family or friends for a delightful meal! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 pound of ground turkey. Next, toss in 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach. Then, sprinkle in 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Add 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget to crack in 1 egg. Now, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Using your hands works best for mixing. This helps combine everything evenly. You want a well-blended mixture that holds together well. Now it’s time to shape your meatballs. Take a handful of the turkey mixture. Roll it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. This size cooks evenly. Place the shaped meatballs on a plate. Make sure they don’t touch. This helps them keep their shape while cooking. Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Wait until the oil is hot. Place the meatballs in the skillet in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps them brown nicely. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. Turn them occasionally to brown all sides. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. They should reach 165°F to be safe to eat. When done, remove the meatballs from the skillet. Place them on a paper towel to absorb extra oil. This keeps them from being greasy. To cook turkey meatballs well, start with fresh ingredients. Use a good quality ground turkey. Mix in chopped spinach and crumbled feta for flavor. I always add breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs. This keeps them moist and fluffy. Use your hands to mix everything. This ensures even flavor in every bite. To avoid dry meatballs, do not overcook them. Keep an eye on the skillet. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. You can also add an egg. It helps to keep the meatballs moist. If you want extra flavor, try adding more feta or a splash of olive oil to the mix. Having the right tools makes cooking easier. Here are some I recommend: - Large mixing bowl: For combining all ingredients well. - Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best for even cooking. - Meatball scoop: This helps shape uniform meatballs. - Instant-read thermometer: To check if your meatballs are cooked through. - Paper towels: Use these to drain excess oil after cooking. These tools make the process smooth and fun! Happy cooking! Pro Tips Keep It Moist: To ensure your meatballs stay juicy, avoid overmixing the turkey mixture. Just combine until everything is incorporated. Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerate the shaped meatballs for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as adding red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor boost. {{image_2}} You can swap ingredients to suit your taste. For ground turkey, try ground chicken. It offers a similar texture and flavor. You may also use ground beef for a richer taste. If feta cheese is not your favorite, use goat cheese instead. It adds a tangy twist to the meatballs. For breadcrumbs, try using oats or crushed crackers. They work well and keep the meatballs moist. Baking and pan-frying both work for these meatballs. Pan-frying gives a nice golden crust. It also adds flavor from the oil. Bake them for a healthier option. Baking keeps them moist without extra fat. Preheat the oven to 400°F if you choose to bake. Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes. Both methods yield tasty results, so pick your style! You can boost the flavors with some simple add-ins. Try adding diced onions for sweetness. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten the dish. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a little heat. For extra flavor, mix in some lemon zest. It gives a fresh zing to the meatballs. Experiment with these options to customize your meal! After cooking, let the meatballs cool down. Place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. Remember to label the container with the date. This helps you know when to eat them. Freezing is a great option if you want to keep meatballs longer. First, arrange the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet. Make sure they don’t touch each other. Freeze them for about two hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Be sure to label the bag with the date, too. When you’re ready to enjoy your meatballs, reheating is key. For best results, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes. This method keeps them juicy. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of stock or sauce to maintain moisture. Enjoy them warm and flavorful! Yes, you can use ground chicken. It will give a lighter taste. Chicken also cooks the same way as turkey. Just keep an eye on the cooking time. You want the meatballs to reach 165°F inside. I love serving these meatballs on a big platter. Sprinkle some extra feta on top. Fresh spinach leaves add a nice touch too. For dips, a fresh tomato sauce or tzatziki pairs perfectly. You can also serve them in a sub with some sauce and veggies. To make these meatballs gluten-free, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers. Check the labels to ensure they are truly gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty meatballs without worry. These Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs are simple to make. We covered the key ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking tips. Understanding variations and proper storage helps you enjoy them longer. For extra flavor, try different herbs or spices. Remember to avoid dry meatballs by mixing properly and cooking them right. With these tips, you will create tasty, healthy meals every time. Keep experimenting to find what you love best!$

Delicious turkey meatballs packed with spinach and feta cheese.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
0.5 cup feta cheese, crumbled
0.25 cup breadcrumbs
0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
to taste salt and pepper
as needed olive oil, for pan frying

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. It’s best to use your hands for even distribution.
Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
While the skillet is heating, shape the turkey mixture into meatballs, roughly the size of a golf ball, and place them on a plate.
Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Remove the meatballs from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Notes

Serve the meatballs on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of extra feta and fresh spinach leaves. Consider pairing with a fresh tomato sauce or a side of tzatziki for dipping.

Keyword feta, healthy, meatballs, spinach, turkey