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Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs

Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs for Cozy Fall Nights

Delight in Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs, a savory and healthy meal that's quick to prepare and packed with protein.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound Ground Turkey Opt for 93% lean for a juicy texture.
  • 1/2 cup Apple Cider Can be swapped with unsweetened apple juice if needed.
  • 1/2 cup Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs Gluten-free breadcrumbs work as a substitute.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
  • 1/2 cup Onion Finely diced.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh is best.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Warm spice.
  • 1 teaspoon Nutmeg Warm spice.
  • 1 teaspoon Allspice Warm spice.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Sage Chopped.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Chopped.
For the Glaze
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup Provides natural sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Offers a tangy kick.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Parchment-lined baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, apple cider, whole wheat breadcrumbs, egg, finely diced onion, minced garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and the fresh chopped herbs. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can lead to tough meatballs. Set aside for a few minutes while you prepare your workspace.
  2. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, take portions of the mixture and form them into meatballs, roughly the size of a golf ball. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chilled turkey meatballs to the skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  4. In the same skillet, pour in the remaining apple cider, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Stir and scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan as the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Allow this glaze to cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens and becomes syrupy.
  5. Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, tossing them gently in the glaze until fully coated. Let them simmer for another 1-2 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These meatballs are perfect for cozy fall nights and can be served with roasted veggies or a fresh salad.

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