Description
Succulent mozzarella-stuffed turkey meatballs blend Italian and healthy cuisine with a protein-packed punch. Garlic and spinach elevate these juicy bites, promising a delightful meal that satisfies both comfort food cravings and nutritional goals.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground turkey
- 12 small mozzarella balls (or 1 cup mozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1/4 cup (30 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
Vegetables and Herbs:
- 1 cup (30 grams) fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup (60 grams) breadcrumbs (whole wheat or regular)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blend ground turkey with finely chopped spinach, aromatic garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture becomes uniformly combined.
- Divide the turkey blend into equal portions, gently flattening each portion in your palm. Position a compact mozzarella cube or ball directly in the center of each portion, meticulously folding and rolling the meat to completely conceal the cheese, creating perfectly sealed spherical meatballs.
- Warm olive oil in a generously sized skillet over medium heat. Carefully introduce the prepared meatballs, maintaining adequate spacing to prevent overcrowding. Sear each meatball for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, rotating to achieve a rich golden-brown exterior.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Transfer the beautifully browned meatballs onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Roast for 15-20 minutes, verifying doneness by confirming the internal temperature reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer.
- Present the mozzarella-filled meatballs immediately, optionally nestled atop pasta, generously draped with marinara sauce, or served as an enticing appetizer. The melted cheese center will create a delightful surprise with each bite.
Notes
- Always use cold mozzarella to help prevent cheese from melting too quickly during initial cooking stages.
- Ensure turkey mixture is not too wet by gently squeezing excess moisture from chopped spinach before mixing.
- Use a light touch when forming meatballs to keep them tender and prevent dense, tough texture.
- Consider freezing mozzarella cubes for 10-15 minutes before stuffing to help maintain cheese integrity during cooking.
- For gluten-free option, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to maintain binding properties.
- Test internal temperature with meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked, juicy meatballs without overcooking.
- Add extra flavor by incorporating finely grated zucchini or herbs like fresh basil into the turkey mixture for depth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg