Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Name: Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

by Emily on December 29, 2024

Looking for a fun and healthy dinner? I’ve got a delicious recipe for Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs that you will love! Packed with flavor and easy to make, these meatballs are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re a busy parent or a first-time cook, this dish is a breeze. Join me as we explore simple steps and tips to make these tasty bites a family favorite!

$- 1 lb ground turkey - 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped - 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1 large egg - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Use these measurements for best results. A pound of ground turkey makes about 4-6 servings. For spinach, two cups means a lot of flavor. Feta adds a nice tang, while breadcrumbs give the meatballs a good texture. The egg binds it all together. Use three cloves of garlic for a nice kick. One-fourth cup of onion adds sweetness and depth. Olive oil keeps the meatballs moist. Oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes bring out the best flavors. If you don’t have ground turkey, try chicken or beef. Fresh spinach can swap with frozen, but drain it first. If feta cheese is not on hand, goat cheese works well. Breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers or oats. You can use egg substitutes if needed. For garlic, garlic powder is a good option. If you want less heat, skip the red pepper flakes. These swaps keep the taste great and the recipe easy. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the meatballs cook evenly. 2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. It makes cleanup easy and helps keep the meatballs from sticking. 3. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground turkey, chopped spinach, and crumbled feta cheese. 4. Add in the breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, and chopped onion. 5. Pour in the olive oil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. 6. Use your hands to mix everything together gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender. 1. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one. 2. Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. 3. Keep an eye on them. They should turn golden brown and be cooked through. 4. Check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. - Prep Time: 15 minutes - Baking Time: 20-25 minutes - Total Time: 40 minutes - Oven Temperature: 400°F (200°C) These steps make it simple to enjoy Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time! To keep meatballs moist, use fresh ingredients. Fresh spinach and feta add moisture. The egg helps bind everything together. Avoid overmixing the meat. Mix gently until just combined. This technique keeps the meatballs tender. Add more flavor with herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill brighten the dish. You can also add lemon zest for a fresh kick. If you like heat, try more red pepper flakes. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance umami flavors. Baking is an easy and healthy method. It allows the meatballs to cook evenly. For extra flavor, broil them for the last few minutes. This adds a nice crust. You can also pan-fry them for a crispy outside. Just make sure to cook them through to 165°F. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the meatballs a vibrant flavor and color. If using frozen spinach, ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture. Chill the Mixture: For easier handling, chill the meatball mixture in the fridge for about 15 minutes before forming the meatballs. This helps them hold their shape during baking. Experiment with Cheese: While feta adds a delicious tang, try substituting with goat cheese or mozzarella for different flavor profiles. Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made in advance and stored in the freezer. Freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for easy meal prep later. {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese for fun. Try using goat cheese for a tangy twist. Mozzarella gives a nice, gooey texture. If you want more flavor, use aged cheddar. Each cheese brings a unique taste to the meatballs. This lets you change the dish to match your mood. Ground turkey is great, but you can use other meats, too. Ground chicken works well and is just as lean. If you prefer beef, use lean ground beef for a richer flavor. You can even try ground lamb for a Mediterranean vibe. These options keep the recipe fresh and exciting. Seasonings can elevate your meatballs. For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes. If you love herbs, mix in fresh parsley or basil. For a smoky flavor, try smoked paprika. You can also use Italian seasoning for a robust taste. Changing the seasonings makes each batch unique. Once you make the Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs, let them cool down. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days. Keep them stored properly to avoid drying out. If you want to enjoy them later, just follow the next steps. To freeze these meatballs, first, let them cool completely. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour. This step keeps them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. Label the bag with the date to keep track. When it’s time to reheat, there are a few easy methods. You can use the oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes. Another option is to use the microwave. Heat them on medium power for about one to two minutes. Always check that they are heated all the way through. Feel free to enjoy them with your favorite sauce or side! Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time. You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge. Just cover them with plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them for later. Place the raw meatballs on a tray and freeze them. Once frozen, put them in a freezer bag. They will last for about three months. When you are ready to cook, no need to thaw. Just bake them straight from the freezer. This saves time on busy nights. These meatballs are so versatile! You can serve them on a platter with fresh herbs. Try adding parsley or basil for color. Marinara sauce is a great dip too. If you want a full meal, serve them over whole grain spaghetti. You can also toss them in a salad or use them in a wrap. The flavors blend well with many sides. Use your favorite sides to create a balanced meal. Get creative and enjoy! Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well. Excess water can make the meatballs soggy. Frozen spinach is a great option when fresh is not available. It still holds good nutrients and flavor. Measure out two cups after it's drained. Using frozen spinach can save time in meal prep too. In this blog post, we explored the key elements for making delicious Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs. We covered important ingredients, detailed step-by-step cooking instructions, and shared useful tips to keep your meatballs moist and flavorful. Remember, you can customize these meatballs with different cheeses or meats to suit your taste. Proper storage is also key for keeping them fresh. Enjoy creating this dish whenever you like!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Healthy Ingredients: These meatballs are packed with nutritious spinach and lean turkey, making them a wholesome meal option.
Flavorful Feta: The addition of feta cheese adds a rich and tangy flavor that elevates the taste of the meatballs.
Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and quick, allowing you to prepare a delicious dinner in under 40 minutes.
Versatile Serving Options: These meatballs can be served as an appetizer, over pasta, or in a sandwich, making them great for any occasion.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 lb ground turkey

– 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1 large egg

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Measurement Guide

Use these measurements for best results. A pound of ground turkey makes about 4-6 servings. For spinach, two cups means a lot of flavor. Feta adds a nice tang, while breadcrumbs give the meatballs a good texture. The egg binds it all together. Use three cloves of garlic for a nice kick. One-fourth cup of onion adds sweetness and depth. Olive oil keeps the meatballs moist. Oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes bring out the best flavors.

Substitutions for Ingredients

If you don’t have ground turkey, try chicken or beef. Fresh spinach can swap with frozen, but drain it first. If feta cheese is not on hand, goat cheese works well. Breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers or oats. You can use egg substitutes if needed. For garlic, garlic powder is a good option. If you want less heat, skip the red pepper flakes. These swaps keep the taste great and the recipe easy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the meatballs cook evenly.

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. It makes cleanup easy and helps keep the meatballs from sticking.

3. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground turkey, chopped spinach, and crumbled feta cheese.

4. Add in the breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, and chopped onion.

5. Pour in the olive oil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

6. Use your hands to mix everything together gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Baking Instructions

1. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

2. Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

3. Keep an eye on them. They should turn golden brown and be cooked through.

4. Check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.

Cooking Time and Temperature

– Prep Time: 15 minutes

– Baking Time: 20-25 minutes

– Total Time: 40 minutes

– Oven Temperature: 400°F (200°C)

These steps make it simple to enjoy Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time!

Tips & Tricks

How to Avoid Dry Meatballs

To keep meatballs moist, use fresh ingredients. Fresh spinach and feta add moisture. The egg helps bind everything together. Avoid overmixing the meat. Mix gently until just combined. This technique keeps the meatballs tender.

Flavor Enhancements

Add more flavor with herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill brighten the dish. You can also add lemon zest for a fresh kick. If you like heat, try more red pepper flakes. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance umami flavors.

Ideal Cooking Methods for Meatballs

Baking is an easy and healthy method. It allows the meatballs to cook evenly. For extra flavor, broil them for the last few minutes. This adds a nice crust. You can also pan-fry them for a crispy outside. Just make sure to cook them through to 165°F.

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the meatballs a vibrant flavor and color. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Chill the Mixture: For easier handling, chill the meatball mixture in the fridge for about 15 minutes before forming the meatballs. This helps them hold their shape during baking.
Experiment with Cheese: While feta adds a delicious tang, try substituting with goat cheese or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made in advance and stored in the freezer. Freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for easy meal prep later.

Variations

Adding Different Cheeses

You can switch up the cheese for fun. Try using goat cheese for a tangy twist. Mozzarella gives a nice, gooey texture. If you want more flavor, use aged cheddar. Each cheese brings a unique taste to the meatballs. This lets you change the dish to match your mood.

Alternative Meat Options

Ground turkey is great, but you can use other meats, too. Ground chicken works well and is just as lean. If you prefer beef, use lean ground beef for a richer flavor. You can even try ground lamb for a Mediterranean vibe. These options keep the recipe fresh and exciting.

Seasoning Modifications

Seasonings can elevate your meatballs. For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes. If you love herbs, mix in fresh parsley or basil. For a smoky flavor, try smoked paprika. You can also use Italian seasoning for a robust taste. Changing the seasonings makes each batch unique.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

Once you make the Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs, let them cool down. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days. Keep them stored properly to avoid drying out. If you want to enjoy them later, just follow the next steps.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze these meatballs, first, let them cool completely. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour. This step keeps them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. Label the bag with the date to keep track.

Reheating Tips

When it’s time to reheat, there are a few easy methods. You can use the oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes. Another option is to use the microwave. Heat them on medium power for about one to two minutes. Always check that they are heated all the way through. Feel free to enjoy them with your favorite sauce or side!

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time. You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge. Just cover them with plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them for later. Place the raw meatballs on a tray and freeze them. Once frozen, put them in a freezer bag. They will last for about three months. When you are ready to cook, no need to thaw. Just bake them straight from the freezer. This saves time on busy nights.

What is the best way to serve Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs?

These meatballs are so versatile! You can serve them on a platter with fresh herbs. Try adding parsley or basil for color. Marinara sauce is a great dip too. If you want a full meal, serve them over whole grain spaghetti. You can also toss them in a salad or use them in a wrap. The flavors blend well with many sides. Use your favorite sides to create a balanced meal. Get creative and enjoy!

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well. Excess water can make the meatballs soggy. Frozen spinach is a great option when fresh is not available. It still holds good nutrients and flavor. Measure out two cups after it’s drained. Using frozen spinach can save time in meal prep too.

In this blog post, we explored the key elements for making delicious Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs. We covered important ingredients, detailed step-by-step cooking instructions, and shared useful tips to keep your meatballs moist and flavorful.

Remember, you can customize these meatballs with different cheeses or meats to suit your taste. Proper storage is also key for keeping them fresh. Enjoy creating this dish whenever you lik

Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs

Delicious turkey meatballs packed with spinach and feta cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, and chopped onion.
Add the olive oil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the mixture.
Using your hands, mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Form the mixture into about 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each meatball.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with marinara sauce or over whole grain spaghetti.

Keyword feta, healthy, meatballs, spinach, turkey