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Flavor-Packed New Years Eve Turkey Meatball Dinner Bowl

turkey meatball dinner bowl - featured image

A quick and easy turkey meatball dinner bowl featuring juicy, tender meatballs in a tangy, slightly sweet glaze served over quinoa or brown rice with steamed broccoli and shredded carrots. Perfect for cozy winter dinners and celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (preferably lean, but with a little fat for juiciness)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs (Japanese-style recommended)
  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • Fresh lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with hands until just combined, about 5 minutes.
  2. Shape mixture into 1 1/2-inch (4 cm) meatballs, about 18 total. Place on a plate or tray and set aside for 10 minutes to help hold shape.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches without crowding. Cook about 4 minutes per side, turning carefully to brown all sides, total 12-15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove meatballs and tent with foil to keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Add chicken broth, tomato paste, honey, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine, scraping browned bits from pan. Simmer 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Return meatballs to skillet and gently stir to coat with sauce. Cook 2 more minutes to meld flavors, then remove from heat.
  6. Cook quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions (15-20 minutes). Steam broccoli until bright green and tender-crisp (about 5 minutes). Shred carrots.
  7. Divide quinoa or rice among 4 bowls. Top with steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and saucy turkey meatballs. Serve with fresh lemon wedges.

Notes

Do not overmix meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs. Use a hot pan and do not crowd meatballs to ensure proper browning. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth to loosen. Fresh lemon wedges brighten the dish. For gluten-free, substitute panko with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, omit parmesan or use plant-based alternative. Meatballs can be baked at 400°F for 20-25 minutes as an alternative to frying.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, dinner bowl, easy recipe, New Years Eve, healthy dinner, quick meal, comfort food, gluten-free option