Turkey Meatballs with Rice Recipe

Introduction

These turkey meatballs with rice are a healthy and flavorful meal that comes together easily. Packed with vegetables and served hot from the oven, they make a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option.

Ingredients

• 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey (can use beef, chicken, or pork)
• 3/4 cup cooked rice (150g)
• 3 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 cup finely chopped vegetables of choice (100g) (e.g., broccoli, carrots, spinach)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly oil a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Add the vegetables to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. If you prefer, chop them finely by hand.
3. Step 3: Heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the vegetables until softened, about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a large bowl.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked rice, remaining sesame oil, and garlic powder to the bowl. Mix until well combined. If the rice feels too hard, microwave it briefly to soften.
5. Step 5: Add the ground turkey to the mixture. Mix gently by hand to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat. With wet hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs. Using an ice cream scooper can help keep sizes uniform.
6. Step 6: Place the meatballs evenly on the prepared baking sheet. In a small oven-safe dish, add some water and place it in the oven next to the meatballs to keep them moist while baking.
7. Step 7: Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the meatballs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

Tips & Variations

• Try using different vegetable combinations like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor and texture.
• Substitute ground beef, chicken, or pork for the turkey depending on your preference.
• Serve with a side of steamed greens or a simple dipping sauce like soy sauce or a spicy mayo.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through. These meatballs can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake these meatballs without adding water to the oven?

Yes, but adding a small dish of water helps keep the meatballs moist while baking, preventing them from drying out.

What type of rice works best in this recipe?

Any cooked rice will work, but medium or long-grain white rice tends to hold together well and mix easily with the other ingredients.

Turkey Meatballs with Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 83 reviews

These Turkey Meatballs with Rice are a healthy and delicious dish perfect for a nutritious meal. Made with lean ground turkey, cooked rice, and finely chopped sautéed vegetables, these meatballs are baked to perfection for a tender and flavorful bite. Sesame oil and garlic powder add a delightful aroma and taste, while baking ensures a moist and evenly cooked texture. Ideal for a wholesome dinner option that is quick and easy to prepare.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16–20 small meatballs 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatballs

• 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey (can use beef, chicken, or pork)
• 3/4 cup cooked rice (150g)
• 3 teaspoons sesame oil, divided
• 1 cup finely chopped vegetables of choice (100g) (e.g., broccoli, carrots, spinach)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly oil a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Chop the vegetables: Add your chosen vegetables to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Alternatively, you can finely dice the veggies by hand for a chunkier texture.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chopped vegetables until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer the cooked veggies to a large mixing bowl.
4. Combine rice and seasonings: Add the cooked rice, remaining 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, and garlic powder to the bowl with the vegetables. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients evenly. If the rice feels too hard, microwave briefly to soften.
5. Add the turkey and form meatballs: Gently add the ground turkey to the rice and vegetable mixture. Use your hands to mix just until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. With wet hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Using an ice cream scooper can help create uniform-sized meatballs.
6. Prepare for baking: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Place a small oven-safe dish with some water on the pan alongside the meatballs to create moisture during baking.
7. Bake the meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking. The meatballs should be cooked through and slightly browned when done.

Notes

• Use freshly cooked or leftover rice for best texture in the meatballs.
• You can substitute lean ground beef, chicken, or pork if preferred.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Using an ice cream scooper helps create evenly sized meatballs, which bake more consistently.
• Adding water in the oven-safe dish helps keep the meatballs moist during baking.
• Ensure not to overmix the meat to keep meatballs tender.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad for a complete meal.

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