Name: Spinach Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground turkey; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; ¼ cup finely chopped carrots; 3 ounces (about 3 loosely packed cups) baby spinach, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil); 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; Olive or avocado oil cooking spray

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 50 reviews

If you’re looking for a delicious and wholesome dinner idea, the Spinach Turkey Meatballs Recipe is an absolute game changer. Packed with lean turkey, fresh spinach, and fragrant herbs, these meatballs are a brilliant way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing flavor. They bake up juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned, making them ideal for family dinners or meal prepping ahead. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two glass bowls on a white marbled surface. The first bowl is filled with separate layers of ingredients: finely chopped white onions on the top left, black pepper next to it, small orange carrot pieces on the right, green chopped herbs both on the bottom left and bottom right, a light beige powder near the center, a small pile of white granules near the bottom right, and a mound of pink ground meat at the bottom left. The second bowl shows all these ingredients mixed together, forming a textured blend of pink meat with green herb bits, orange carrot flakes, and small white and black specks evenly spread throughout. The mixture looks moist and dense inside the clear glass bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. From the lean turkey that forms the hearty base to the vibrant spinach and aromatic garlic powder, every component is essential.

2 pounds ground turkey: Provides a lean, protein-packed base that stays tender when baked.
1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped): Adds a mild sweetness and moisture to keep the meatballs juicy.
¼ cup finely chopped carrots: Brings a subtle sweetness and extra texture, while boosting nutrition.
3 ounces baby spinach (finely chopped): Packs in color, nutrients, and a delicate earthiness without overpowering the dish.
1 tablespoon garlic powder: Infuses the meatballs with warm, savory notes that complement the turkey perfectly.
1 tablespoon fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil): Offers a fresh herbal aroma that elevates the overall flavor profile.
1 ½ teaspoons sea salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite satisfying.
1 teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle heat and brings balance to the seasoning.
Olive or avocado oil cooking spray: Prevents sticking and helps the meatballs brown beautifully in the oven.

How to Make Spinach Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Tray

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line your baking tray with parchment paper or give it a good spray with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures the meatballs won’t stick and will bake to a perfect golden finish.

Step 2: Finely Chop Your Veggies

Chopping the onion, carrot, and spinach as finely as possible is critical. You don’t want big chunks disrupting the smooth texture of the meatballs. For a quick and even chop, pop them into a food processor—this also saves you time and effort.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients Gently

In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, finely chopped vegetables, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overwork the mixture because that can make the meatballs tough.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 1 to 2-inch balls, making sure they’re roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Place each meatball about an inch apart on your prepared baking sheet. This spacing helps them brown nicely on all sides.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy

Bake your meatballs for around 25 minutes until the outsides have a lovely light brown color and the centers are no longer pink. Once done, serve them warm and let their juicy, herb-filled flavor shine!

How to Serve Spinach Turkey Meatballs Recipe

A white bowl holds a layer of yellow spiral pasta at the bottom, with a smooth texture and tightly coiled shapes. On top of the pasta, there are six round meatballs covered in red tomato sauce, showing bits of green herbs inside the meatballs. Fresh green basil leaves are placed both on the meatballs and around the edges. The bowl is set on a cream-colored cloth with a soft woven texture, and a gold fork lies next to it on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a small wooden bowl with white salt and a black pan partially visible with more meatballs and sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, extra basil leaves, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan add a burst of color and extra flavor that’ll elevate your meatballs. A drizzle of your favorite olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, a bed of garlic buttered noodles, or a fresh garden salad with tangy vinaigrette. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve them with a zesty tomato sauce or a cool cucumber yogurt dip for contrasts in flavor and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Spinach Turkey Meatballs make for an excellent appetizer too! Skewer them with toothpicks alongside cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls for a colorful party platter. Or, stuff them into pita pockets with crunchy veggies and a dollop of tzatziki for a healthy, handheld lunch option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meatballs have cooled completely, pop them into an airtight container and store in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making them a fantastic option for quick meals throughout the week. Leftover meatballs are just as delicious cold or reheated.

Freezing

If you want to save them for later, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, ready to be pulled out whenever you need a no-fuss meal.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts to keep them juicy and avoid drying out. Reheating gently is key to preserving their tender texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute in this Spinach Turkey Meatballs Recipe. It has a similar lean profile and mild flavor that pairs nicely with the veggies and spices.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh spinach?

If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it into your meatballs to avoid sogginess.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The meatballs are done when the outsides are lightly browned and the centers are no longer pink. For extra safety, you can use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Can I bake these meatballs at a higher temperature?

While you can, baking at 350°F ensures they cook evenly without drying out. Higher temperatures might brown the outside too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked, so sticking to the recommended temperature is best.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! This Spinach Turkey Meatballs Recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no breadcrumbs or other gluten-containing fillers. Just double-check your spice labels if you have concerns about additives.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Spinach Turkey Meatballs Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those dishes that’s both nourishing and comforting, with flavors that delight every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals ahead, these meatballs will bring joy and ease to your kitchen. Happy cooking!