Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic dish. Perfectly seasoned, packed with protein, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like crumbled feta cheese and fresh spinach, these meatballs are an easy and versatile addition to your meal rotation. Whether served as a main dish, in a wrap, or over a bed of rice or pasta, they’re sure to please the entire family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy and Nutritious: Made with lean turkey, fresh spinach, and feta cheese, this recipe is high in protein and low in fat.
2. Bursting with Flavor: Mediterranean herbs and creamy feta cheese make these meatballs irresistible.
3. Easy to Make: Simple steps and basic ingredients make this a quick go-to recipe for busy days.
4. Versatile: These meatballs can be paired with a variety of sides or used in different dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the Spinach: Wash and finely chop the spinach, removing any tough stems.
2. Crush the Feta: Use a fork to crumble the feta cheese into small pieces for easy mixing.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

1. Combine in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, add ground turkey, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix Well: Use your hands or a wooden spoon to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs

1. Form the Balls: Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands.
2. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the meatballs evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

Step 5: Cook the Meatballs

Option 1: Bake in the Oven

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Broil for Crispness: For a crispy exterior, broil the meatballs for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

Option 2: Pan-Fry on the Stovetop

1. Heat Oil: Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium heat.
2. Cook the Meatballs: Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning gently, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the Meatballs: Serve the meatballs hot with your choice of sides.
2. Pair with Sauces: Drizzle with tzatziki or marinara sauce for added flavor.

Tips for Success

1. Keep the Mixture Moist: Don’t skip the egg and breadcrumbs; they help bind the meatballs and keep them moist.
2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the ingredients can result in tough meatballs. Combine just until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the meatballs are cooked through by checking the internal temperature.

Variations

1. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
2. Dairy-Free Option: Replace feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it altogether.
3. Different Proteins: Swap ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or lamb.
4. Herb Substitutions: Use fresh herbs like dill, mint, or basil for added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

1. Classic Mediterranean Bowl: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa with roasted vegetables and a dollop of tzatziki.
2. Pita Wrap: Stuff meatballs into a warm pita with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce.
3. Appetizer Style: Arrange on a platter with toothpicks and serve alongside dipping sauces like hummus or tzatziki.
4. Pasta Night: Toss the meatballs in marinara sauce and serve over spaghetti or zoodles for a lighter option.

Pairing Suggestions

These Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs are versatile and pair wonderfully with:

1. Drinks: Lemon water, iced tea, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
2. Salads: Greek salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.
3. Sides: Garlic bread, roasted potatoes, or steamed green beans.

Conclusion

Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs are the perfect combination of healthy, hearty, and delicious. Their Mediterranean-inspired flavors make them a standout dish for any occasion, and their versatility ensures they’ll be a hit with everyone.

Yield: 4

Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Print

Spinach and Feta Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic dish. Perfectly seasoned, packed with protein, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like crumbled feta cheese and fresh spinach, these meatballs are an easy and versatile addition to your meal rotation. Whether served as a main dish, in a wrap, or over a bed of rice or pasta, they’re sure to please the entire family.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until well combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

2. Shape the Meatballs

1. Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 ½ inches in diameter.
2. Place the shaped meatballs on a plate or tray.

3. Cook the Meatballs

• Stovetop Method:
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the meatballs in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
• Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and the meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
• Oven-Baked Method:
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Arrange the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until fully cooked and lightly golden.

4. Serve

1. Serve warm with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or over rice.
2. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of feta if desired.