If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal, Spinach Feta Baked Turkey Meatballs are the perfect choice! This dish combines the lean protein of ground turkey with the creamy saltiness of feta cheese and the nutritional boost of spinach. Baked to perfection, these Turkey Florentine Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and ideal for meal prepping, serving over pasta, or enjoying on their own.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips for making the best Ground Turkey Spinach Meatballs and creative serving ideas. Let’s dive into this tasty and wholesome recipe!
Why You’ll Love These Turkey and Feta Meatballs
- Healthy & Nutritious: These Ground Turkey Feta Meatballs are packed with lean protein, iron-rich spinach, and calcium-loaded feta cheese.
- Baked, Not Fried: Unlike traditional fried meatballs, these are baked, reducing excess oil and keeping them light.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of feta cheese, garlic, and herbs ensures every bite is delicious.
- Versatile: Enjoy them in a sub, on pasta, in a salad, or as an appetizer with a dipping sauce.
Ingredients for Spinach Feta Baked Turkey Meatballs
To make these juicy Turkey and Feta Meatballs, you’ll need:
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) ground turkey – Lean turkey keeps these meatballs light and protein-rich.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped – Adds color, flavor, and nutrients.
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled – Provides a creamy, salty contrast to the turkey.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the mixture together.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb option) – Keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild heat.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Complements the feta and spinach.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil – Adds depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps retain moisture in the meatballs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, and seasonings.
- Mix gently using a spoon or your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough meatballs.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- For extra indulgence, you can stuff each meatball with a small piece of feta to create Feta Stuffed Meatballs.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Turkey Feta Spinach Meatballs
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh spinach and high-quality feta cheese enhances the flavor. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
2. Don’t Overmix
Overworking the turkey mixture can make the meatballs dense. Gently mix until just combined.
3. Keep Them Juicy
Baking meatballs at a higher temperature (400°F) seals in moisture, preventing them from drying out. Adding olive oil and breadcrumbs helps retain juiciness.
4. Make Them Even
For uniform cooking, ensure the meatballs are of equal size. A cookie scoop or tablespoon works great for this.
5. Test for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures safety while keeping them tender.
Serving Suggestions
These Turkey and Feta Meatballs are incredibly versatile! Here are some serving ideas:
1. Classic Pasta Pairing
Serve them over whole wheat or zucchini noodles with marinara sauce or a light garlic butter sauce.
2. Mediterranean Grain Bowl
Pair them with quinoa, hummus, cucumber, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean-style meal.
3. Greek-Inspired Meatball Sub
Stuff them in a toasted baguette with lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki for a Turkey Burger Feta Spinach sandwich.
4. Appetizer Platter
Serve with toothpicks and a side of tzatziki, hummus, or spicy harissa sauce.
5. Low-Carb Option
Enjoy them with a fresh Greek salad or in lettuce wraps.
Storage & Meal Prep
These Chicken and Feta Meatballs are great for meal prepping!
Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Uncooked: Freeze raw meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- Cooked: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Variations & Substitutions
1. Swap the Meat
- Use ground chicken instead of turkey for Chicken and Feta Meatballs.
- Try a mix of turkey and beef for extra richness.
2. Cheese Variations
- Instead of feta, use goat cheese or parmesan for a different twist.
3. Gluten-Free Option
- Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or oat flour.
4. Spice It Up
- Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.
5. Dairy-Free Option
- Replace feta with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture and shape the meatballs, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q2: Can I air-fry these meatballs?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Q3: Why are my turkey meatballs dry?
If your meatballs are dry, try adding a bit more olive oil or breadcrumbs. Also, avoid overbaking them.
Q4: Can I make these meatballs without eggs?
Yes! Replace the egg with 2 tablespoons of mashed sweet potato or Greek yogurt.
Conclusion
These Spinach Feta Baked Turkey Meatballs are a must-try for anyone who loves a healthy yet flavorful meal. Whether you enjoy them as a main course, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit!
Try this easy Turkey Florentine Meatballs recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of lean protein, creamy feta, and nutritious spinach. Happy cooking! 😊
