Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for healthy Swedish turkey meatballs will become a new family favorite. These lean meatballs are bursting with flavor, packed with nutrients, and require minimal cleanup – perfect for a busy weeknight. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple preparation ensures your meatballs bake evenly and are easy to serve.
Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, rolled oats, onion, carrots, egg, garlic, Dijon mustard, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined; avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough. Using your hands to combine ingredients ensures everything is evenly distributed.
Shape and Bake:
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each meatball for even cooking. Baking the meatballs ensures they cook through completely and develop a lovely texture.
Create the Sauce:
- Pour the chicken broth into the baking dish, ensuring the meatballs are partially submerged. If using, add the heavy cream for a richer sauce. This creates a delicious and flavorful base for the meatballs.
Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Check for doneness using a meat thermometer for the best results.
Finishing Touches:
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. These healthy Swedish turkey meatballs are delicious served over mashed sweet potatoes, egg noodles, or a bed of fluffy quinoa for a complete and nutritious meal.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough meatballs. Gentle mixing is key!
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. A dash of nutmeg adds a lovely warm flavor.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the meatball mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional Swedish meatballs. It's a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and happy cooking!