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Easy Mini Turkey Meatball Lunchbox Cups

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These mini turkey meatball cups are baked in a muffin tin for crispy edges and juicy centers, making them perfect for lunchboxes, meal prep, or a quick dinner. They are quick, easy, and loved by picky eaters and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93/7 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain panko or homemade)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Non-stick cooking spray or oil for greasing

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven. Generously spray a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; do not overmix.
  3. Portion the mixture evenly into the 12 muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Leave the meat slightly mounded.
  4. Using the back of a teaspoon or your thumb, gently press a small indent (about 1/2 inch deep) into the center of each meatball to create a well.
  5. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the edges are golden brown and crispy. For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
  6. Let the meatball cups rest in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, gently loosen the edges with a small spatula or butter knife and transfer to a cooling rack.
  7. Optional: While still warm, spoon a little marinara sauce, barbecue sauce, or extra shredded cheese into the wells.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid tough meatballs. Use a light hand when forming the wells. Let the cups rest for 5 minutes before removing to prevent sticking. For freezing, cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatball cups, mini meatball cups, lunchbox meatballs, easy meatball recipe, kid-friendly meatballs, meal prep meatballs, ground turkey recipe

Find it online: https://milaspoon.com/easy-mini-turkey-meatball-lunchbox-cups/