Print

Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 26 reviews

These Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful and nutritious twist on classic meatballs, featuring lean turkey blended with aromatic herbs and warm spices. Glazed in a sweet and tangy apple cider reduction, they make a perfect quick and healthy meal option that’s bursting with autumnal flavors and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 pound (16 oz) 93% lean ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup apple cider
  • 1/2 small onion, very finely diced (about 1/4 cup)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Glaze

  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, whole wheat breadcrumbs, beaten egg, 1/4 cup apple cider, finely diced onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh sage, fresh thyme leaves, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan cheese if using. Mix gently with clean hands until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
  2. Form meatballs: Shape the mixture into approximately 20 meatballs, each about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion evenly.
  3. Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the meatballs carefully in batches to avoid crowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they are browned all over and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (about 8-10 minutes total). Remove meatballs and keep warm covered loosely with foil.
  4. Make the glaze: In the same skillet with remaining drippings, add 1 cup apple cider, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until the glaze reduces by half and thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Coat the meatballs: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and gently toss them in the glaze to coat evenly. Simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes until meatballs are heated through and well coated.
  6. Serve: Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. They pair well with whole grains, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
  • Whole wheat breadcrumbs add extra fiber; substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a depth of savory flavor.
  • To keep meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
  • Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, apple cider glaze, healthy meatballs, lean ground turkey recipe, autumn flavors, low fat dinner, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/healthy-apple-cider-turkey-meatballs-recipe/