Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also good for you? Look no further! These gluten-free meatballs are the perfect solution. They're surprisingly easy to make, bursting with deliciousness, and completely adaptable to your taste preferences. This recipe offers a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey or chicken (lean ground beef works well too!)
- 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (or finely crushed gluten-free crackers)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. If using crackers instead of breadcrumbs, crush them finely in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin.
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Combine the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground meat, gluten-free breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
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Shape the meatballs: Using your hands, roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them roughly the same size for even cooking.
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Brown the meatballs (optional): For extra flavor, heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a beautiful sear.
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Bake the meatballs: Transfer the skillet (or a baking sheet if you skipped browning) to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Serve and enjoy!: Serve your delicious gluten-free meatballs with your favorite pasta sauce, over zucchini noodles, in a hearty soup, or on a bed of rice.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture will make the meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatballs are cooked through.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your meatballs. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Make ahead: You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Italian-Herb Meatballs: Substitute Italian seasoning for the oregano and basil.
- Cheesy Meatballs: Add some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese to the meat mixture.
- Veggie Meatballs: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a reasonable estimate per meatball is around 70-80 calories, with a moderate amount of protein and low carbohydrates. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients.
This easy recipe for gluten-free meatballs offers a healthy and delicious meal option that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy creating this simple yet satisfying dish!