For those following a ketogenic lifestyle, finding satisfying and flavorful meals can sometimes be a challenge. Look no further than this keto turkey meatball recipe! These meatballs are not only delicious but also low in carbs, gluten-free, and packed with protein. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying snack, or a meal prep option, these turkey meatballs are a versatile and healthy choice.
Why Turkey Meatballs?
Ground turkey is a fantastic alternative to beef, offering a leaner protein source without sacrificing flavor. When seasoned properly, ground turkey can be just as rich and satisfying as its beef counterpart. This recipe uses a blend of spices and parmesan cheese to create a flavorful and savory meatball that will please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's what you'll need to make these keto-friendly turkey meatballs:
- Ground turkey: Opt for 85% lean ground turkey for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
- Almond flour: Used as a low-carb binder instead of breadcrumbs.
- Egg: Helps to bind the ingredients together.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory flavor and helps with binding. Hard cheeses like Greek kefalotyri or pecorino can also be used.
- Onion: Provides flavor and moisture.
- Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To enhance the flavor of the meatballs.
- Olive oil: For cooking the meatballs.
- Marinara sauce: A classic pairing for meatballs, be sure to choose a low-carb option. Rao's and Aldi's Specially Selected Premium Marinara sauce are both good choices.
- Optional: Chili flakes, pancetta, fresh herbs (mint, basil, sage), garlic powder, cumin, mustard, cayenne, ground mustard, nutmeg, coconut aminos, heavy cream, butter, lemon juice, sugar substitute.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create delicious keto turkey meatballs:
1. Preparing the Meat Mixture
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, almond flour, parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, and spices (salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and any other desired seasonings).
- Mix all ingredients together gently, taking care not to overmix the meat. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
- If the mixture is too loose to handle, refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to firm it up.
2. Forming the Meatballs
- Wet your hands with water or coat them in oil to prevent the meat from sticking.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs. Aim for around 1-1/2 inches in diameter, about the size of a golf ball.
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
3. Cooking the Meatballs
There are several ways to cook your keto turkey meatballs:
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Baking:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For extra browning, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Air Frying:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) if required.
- Place meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving about 1 inch of space between each meatball.
- Air fry for 8-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Skillet:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the meatballs and cook for 6-9 minutes, rotating every 2-3 minutes, until golden brown on all sides.
- This method is best used when you are not serving the meatballs in a sauce.
4. Adding the Sauce (Optional)
- If using a marinara sauce, you can either bake the meatballs in the sauce or add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer until heated through.
- To bake in the sauce, transfer the meatballs and sauce to an oven-safe dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly.
5. Serving and Enjoying
- Serve the keto turkey meatballs hot, with your favorite low-carb sides.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Keto Turkey Meatballs
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can result in tough meatballs. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
- Keep your hands wet: Wetting your hands with water or coating them in oil will prevent the meat from sticking.
- Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop helps to create evenly sized meatballs, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan can cause the meatballs to steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the seasonings to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor.
- Add cheese: Add cheese to the meatball mixture.
- Chill the meatballs: Chilling the meatballs for 15-30 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape.
- Use quality sauce: Using high-quality marinara sauce can make a big difference in the overall flavor of the dish.
- Consider using ground turkey thighs: For a decent amount of fat.
Serving Suggestions
These keto turkey meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- With zucchini noodles: A classic low-carb pairing.
- Over cauliflower mash: A creamy and comforting alternative to mashed potatoes.
- In a salad: Add the meatballs to a salad for a protein-packed lunch.
- Stuffed in a sweet potato: A unique and flavorful combination.
- As an appetizer: Serve the meatballs with a low-carb dipping sauce.
- With Palmini or Wonder noodles: Alternative low-carb noodle options.
- Over spaghetti squash with marinara sauce: A hearty and satisfying meal.
- With Creamy Paleo Tomato Basil Soup or Keto Tomato Soup: To amp up the protein.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerating: Leftover cooked meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Freezing: Keto turkey meatballs can be frozen either cooked or uncooked.
- To freeze uncooked meatballs: Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- To freeze cooked meatballs: Fry them until cooked through, cool completely, and then freeze.
- Thaw frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before cooking or reheating.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional information for these keto turkey meatballs will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, according to one calculation, one meatball without sauce contains approximately:
- Calories: 45
- Fat: 3.4g
- Carbs: 0.3g net carbs
- Protein: 3.3g
One meatball with sauce contains approximately:
- Calories: 55
- Fat: 4.1g
- Carbs: 0.8g net carbs
- Protein: 3.5g
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto