Looking for a delicious and nutritious twist on classic meatballs? Look no further! Our Butternut Squash Baby Meatballs are not only packed with flavor but also loaded with wholesome ingredients that the whole family will love. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, these little bites are a delightful way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your cravings. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this mouthwatering dish that combines the savory richness of ground turkey with the sweet, creamy goodness of butternut squash!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup butternut squash, cooked and mashed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and mashed butternut squash with ground turkey, ensuring they are well integrated.
- Add breadcrumbs, egg, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Using clean hands, gently mix all ingredients until thoroughly combined.
- Wash hands and lightly wet them with water to prevent the mixture from sticking while forming meatballs.
- Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs approximately 1-inch in diameter, placing them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Ensure meatballs are not touching each other to allow even cooking and browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow meatballs to set and become easier to handle.
- Optional: Serve with a light yogurt dip or pureed vegetable sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Opt for fresh butternut squash for the best flavor. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked or frozen butternut squash, but make sure to drain any excess moisture.
- Mix Gently: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix. This will help keep the meatballs tender and prevent them from becoming tough.
- Keep Your Hands Wet: Wetting your hands while rolling the meatballs can help prevent the mixture from sticking, making the process cleaner and easier.
- Uniform Size: Aim for consistent 1-inch meatballs to ensure even cooking. This will also help them bake more evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown exterior.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety and optimal texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs or spices like garlic powder, parsley, or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost!
- Serve Creatively: Pair these meatballs with a light yogurt dip or a pureed vegetable sauce to enhance their taste and add nutritional value to your meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 266kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 25g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 107mg
