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Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs

Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs for Cozy Fall Nights

Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs combine lean turkey with sweet apple cider for a nourishing meal that's a joy to gather around.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Turkey Choose 93% lean for juiciness; can substitute with ground chicken.
  • 1/2 cup Apple Cider Provides moisture and sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Whole wheat recommended; gluten-free works too.
  • 1 large Egg Essential for binding.
  • 1 small Onion Finely diced.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon Fall spice.
  • 1 tsp Nutmeg Fall spice.
  • 1 tsp Allspice Fall spice.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Herbs (Sage, Thyme) Fresh or dried, adjust quantity.
For the Glaze
  • 1/4 cup Maple Syrup For sweetness.
  • 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard Provides tang.

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • non-stick skillet
  • Parchment-lined baking sheet
  • Ice cream scoop

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, apple cider, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, and garlic. Add fall spices and fresh herbs, mixing gently.
  2. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into uniform meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Sear Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Sear meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. Make Glaze: In the skillet, lower heat and add apple cider, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
  5. Coat Meatballs: Return meatballs to the skillet and toss in the glaze for about 2 minutes until heated through and well-coated.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 6mg

Notes

These meatballs can be customized with different ground meats or spices according to taste. Experiment with the glaze for added variety.

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