Print

Best Easy Mini Turkey Meatball Lunchbox Cups

mini turkey meatball lunchbox cups - featured image
Print Recipe

These mini turkey meatball cups are baked in a muffin tin for perfectly portioned, snackable meatballs that are ideal for lunchboxes. They’re quick to make, use simple ingredients, and are a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93/7 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher preferred)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven. Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil or cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley if using. Mix with a fork or your hands until just combined; do not overmix.
  3. Divide the mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Gently pat the mixture down without pressing too firmly.
  4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.
  5. Let the meatball cups cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then gently run a knife around the edges and lift them out. Transfer to a cooling rack.
  6. Let them cool completely before packing into lunchboxes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Notes

For extra crispy edges, broil the meatball cups for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. These freeze beautifully; freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. The flavor improves overnight.

Nutrition

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

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