These Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional burgers, combining the savory goodness of turkey and cheese into bite-sized delights. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or meal prep, these meatballs are low in carbs and high in flavor. You’ll love how they capture the essence of a cheeseburger while being easy to make and satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger without the extra carbs.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of turkey and Swiss cheese brings richness and depth.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even beginners can whip these up with confidence.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve as appetizers, main dishes, or add to salads for a protein boost.
- Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs reheat well, making them perfect for leftovers.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grilling pan
- Measuring cup
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without spilling.
- Grilling pan: Allows for even cooking and browning while keeping meatballs intact.
- Measuring cup: Ensures uniform meatball sizes, promoting even cooking.
Ingredients
These low-carb Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs have all the comfort food appeal of grilled Turkey cheeseburgers, without the carbs!
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 2 tsp. steak seasoning (see notes)
- 1/2 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper
- 1 egg
- 6 slices Turkey , crumbled (see notes)
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickle (see notes)
- 4 oz. Swiss cheese, cut into very small cubes (or use other cheese of your choice)
- Olive oil for brushing meatballs
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Combine the lean ground beef in a mixing bowl with steak seasoning and black pepper. Add one egg to bind the mixture.
Step 2: Prepare Add-ins
Crisp the turkey in a skillet until it’s nice and crunchy. Crumble it into small pieces. Dice the dill pickles finely and cut Swiss cheese into tiny cubes.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add crumbled turkey, diced pickles, and cheese cubes to the beef mixture. Use your hands to mix gently; avoid over-mixing to keep meatballs tender.
Step 4: Form Meatballs
Scoop out portions using a 1/4 cup measuring tool. Shape each portion into a meatball while tucking cheese cubes inside for an oozy center.
Step 5: Chill the Meatballs
Place formed meatballs on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30–40 minutes. Chilling helps them hold their shape during grilling.
Step 6: Preheat Your Grill
While chilling, get your grilling pan ready on top of grill grates. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or use a stovetop grill pan if preferred.
Step 7: Oil & Cook Meatballs
After chilling, brush olive oil on both sides of each meatball to prevent sticking. Place them on the grilling pan.
Step 8: Grill Them Right
Cook the meatballs on medium-high heat, turning every couple of minutes until browned on all sides.
Step 9: Check Doneness
Start checking for doneness after about 15 minutes using an instant-read thermometer; aim for an internal temp of at least 160°F (71°C).
Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce if desired. These Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs are also great reheated!
Step 11: Store Leftovers
If you have extra meatballs, store them in an airtight container in your fridge for quick meals later!
Enjoy these delicious bites any time!
How to Serve Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs
Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs are delicious and versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these meatballs can be served in numerous delightful ways.
Sliders
- Mini buns make an ideal base for these meatballs, creating tasty sliders that are easy to handle and eat.
Dipping Sauces
- Serve with BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for added flavor. Dipping sauces enhance the taste of the meatballs and provide variety.
Salad Toppers
- Slice the cooked meatballs and toss them over a fresh green salad. This adds protein and flavor to your meal while keeping it light.
Pasta Dish
- Mix the meatballs with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a comforting dinner option that brings together classic flavors.
Appetizer Platter
- Arrange the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties. This makes them an excellent finger food option.
Breakfast Option
- Pair them with scrambled eggs or an omelet for a protein-packed breakfast that will keep you energized throughout the day.
How to Perfect Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs
Creating the perfect Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right:
- Use Lean Ground Beef: Choosing lean ground beef helps prevent excess grease, making your meatballs healthier and more enjoyable.
- Avoid Over-Mixing: Gently combine ingredients to maintain tenderness. Over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerating the formed meatballs helps them hold their shape while cooking, leading to perfectly round meatballs.
- Preheat Your Grill: A well-preheated grill ensures even cooking and allows the meatballs to brown beautifully on all sides.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Use an instant-read thermometer for accurate results. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety and quality.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Swiss cheese is fantastic, feel free to try other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs
Pairing side dishes with Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Cauliflower Mash: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that complements the rich flavors of the meatballs.
- Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries add crunch and are a healthier alternative to regular fries.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer great color and nutrition alongside your tasty meatballs.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: These provide a hint of sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors while being nutritious too.
- Pickle Chips: Serve pickle chips as a tangy side that echoes the dill pickles in your meatball recipe.
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that’s always welcome at any meal; it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the meat: Mixing the ingredients too much can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine everything just until mixed.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the meatballs before grilling can cause them to lose shape. Always refrigerate for 30-40 minutes.
- Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can result in bland meatballs. Use steak seasoning and fresh black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Cooking at the wrong temperature: Cooking on too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for medium-high heat and check for doneness with a thermometer.
- Not using enough fat: If you don’t brush the meatballs with olive oil, they may stick to the grill. A light coating helps prevent this issue.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Meatballs can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs
- Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What variations can I try with Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs?
You can customize these meatballs by adding different cheeses, like cheddar or pepper jack, or mixing in herbs such as parsley or chives for added flavor.
How do I know when Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs are done?
Check for an internal temperature of at least 160°F (70°C) using a meat thermometer. Alternatively, cut one open to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you prefer poultry. Just remember that it may yield slightly different flavors and textures.
How do I serve Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious on their own or served with dipping sauces like barbecue or ranch dressing. You can also place them on slider buns for mini sandwiches!
Final Thoughts
Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs offer all the deliciousness of traditional cheeseburgers while being low-carb and versatile. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, seasonings, or dipping sauces. This recipe is perfect for meal prep or gatherings—try it today!
Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs
Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic cheeseburgers. Combining lean ground beef, crispy turkey and gooey Swiss cheese, these bite-sized meatballs deliver all the satisfying flavors without the extra carbs. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or meal prep, they are easy to make and versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces or over a fresh salad for a protein-packed meal. With simple preparation steps and delicious results, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 2 tsp. steak seasoning
- 1/2 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper
- 1 egg
- 6 slices turkey crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickle
- 4 oz. Swiss cheese, cut into small cubes
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with steak seasoning and black pepper; add the egg.
- Cook the turkey until crispy, crumble it into small pieces, and chop the dill pickles.
- Add crumbled, diced pickles, and cheese cubes to the beef mixture and mix gently.
- Form meatballs using a 1/4 cup measuring tool; tuck cheese cubes inside.
- Chill meatballs on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes before grilling.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; brush meatballs with olive oil.
- Grill meatballs for about 15 minutes until browned and reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).
- Serve hot with dipping sauces or as part of your meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 80mg