Get ready to transform your boring weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure that will have your taste buds dancing! These aren't your ordinary meatballs - we're talking about a tropical-inspired, protein-packed sensation that combines the lean goodness of turkey with the unexpected sweetness of pineapple and the subtle earthiness of carrots. Imagine a bite that's simultaneously juicy, flavorful, and nutritionally balanced - this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of ground turkey, 1 cup of grated carrots, 1/2 cup of drained crushed pineapple, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated carrots, crushed pineapple, breadcrumbs, egg, and garlic powder. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until they are well combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, then adjust according to your preference.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form small meatballs, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray.
- After all the meatballs are formed and placed on the baking sheet, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, you can prepare a side dish or sauce if desired. A simple side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad pairs well with the meatballs.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the carrot pineapple turkey meatballs warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Tips
- Moisture is Key: The crushed pineapple isn't just for flavor - it helps keep your meatballs incredibly tender and juicy.
- Don't Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overworking the meat can make your meatballs tough.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform meatballs, use a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop to ensure even sizing and consistent cooking.
- Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs reach 165°F for food safety.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These meatballs can be prepared in advance and frozen before baking, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a light yogurt-based dip or a tangy sauce to complement the sweet and savory flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 274kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 26g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 107mg
