Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

These low-carb Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs have all the comfort food appeal of grilled Turkey cheeseburgers, without the carbs! Perfect for game nights, family dinners, or meal prep, they deliver a satisfying taste without the guilt. The combination of savory turkey and melted cheese makes these meatballs a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy all the flavors of a cheeseburger without the extra carbs.
• Quick and Easy: Simple preparation and cooking instructions make this recipe a breeze.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve them as appetizers or main dishes with your favorite sides.
• Kid-Friendly: With their fun shape and delicious taste, kids will love these meatballs.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs, gather the essential tools to make this process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grilling Pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
• Plastic Wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grilling Pan: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked meatballs.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Ensures your meatballs are cooked through to a safe temperature.

Ingredients

These low-carb Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs have all the comfort food appeal of grilled Turkey cheeseburgers, without the carbs!

For the Meatballs

• 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

Begin by placing the ground beef in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle it with steak seasoning and black pepper. Add in one egg and mix gently until combined.

Step 2: Prepare Add-Ins

Crisp up the Turkey in a skillet. Once cooked, crumble it into small pieces. Dice your dill pickles and cut cheese into tiny cubes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the crumbled Turkey diced pickles, and cheese cubes to the beef mixture. Use your hands to combine everything gently; avoid over-mixing to keep meatballs tender.

Step 4: Shape Meatballs

Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to scoop out portions of the mixture. Roll them into balls, tucking some cheese cubes inside each one as you shape them.

Step 5: Chill Meatballs

Arrange formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with plastic wrap. Chill them in the fridge for about 30-40 minutes to help them maintain their shape during cooking.

Step 6: Preheat Grill or Pan

While meatballs chill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grilling pan, place it on top of grill grates to heat up.

Step 7: Brush with Olive Oil

Take chilled meatballs from the fridge and lightly brush both sides with olive oil to prevent sticking during cooking.

Step 8: Cook Meatballs

Place meatballs on the hot grilling pan. Cook for about 15 minutes, turning every two minutes to brown evenly on all sides.

Step 9: Check Doneness

After approximately fifteen minutes of cooking, check if they are done using an instant-read thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of at least 160F/102C.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Remove from heat and serve hot! You can add dipping sauces if desired for extra flavor.

Step 11: Store Leftovers

These meatballs reheat well! Consider doubling the recipe so you have plenty left over for quick meals later in the week!

How to Serve Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

These Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs are versatile and delicious, perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On a Bun

• Classic Cheeseburger Style: Place meatballs on toasted buns and top with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
• Sliders: Serve smaller meatballs on mini buns for bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering.

With Dipping Sauces

• BBQ Sauce: A smoky BBQ sauce pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the meatballs.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch offers a cool contrast that complements the meatballs’ richness.

Over Salad

• Caesar Salad: Top a Caesar salad with warm meatballs for a hearty twist on the classic dish.
• Greek Salad: Add meatballs to a Greek salad for a protein-packed meal full of fresh veggies.

As an Appetizer

• Meatball Skewers: Thread cooked meatballs onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for fun finger food.
• Charcuterie Board: Include meatballs as part of a charcuterie spread alongside cheeses and nuts.

How to Perfect Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

To achieve the best Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs, follow these helpful tips. With just a few adjustments, you can make them even more delicious.

• Bold Flavoring: Use high-quality steak seasoning to enhance the taste of your meatballs.
• Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients gently; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Chill Before Grilling: Refrigerate formed meatballs before cooking to help them hold their shape on the grill.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs or spices can brighten up the flavor profile of your meatballs.
• Check Doneness Accurately: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese inside your meatballs for unique flavor combinations.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that is creamy and flavorful, perfect alongside the meatballs.
2. Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries add a delightful crunch without excess carbs.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides freshness that balances the rich flavors of the meatball.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts offer both texture and nutrition, complementing the meal beautifully.
5. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy cauliflower rice serves as an excellent base for enjoying your meatballs.
6. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges add sweetness and nutrients while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs, it’s easy to go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Overmixing the Meat: Mixing the ingredients too much can make your meatballs tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined for a tender meatball.
• Not Chilling the Meatballs: Skipping the chilling step may cause the meatballs to lose shape while cooking. Always chill them for at least 30-40 minutes before grilling.
• Using Too Much Oil: Applying excess olive oil can make your meatballs greasy. Just a light brush on each side is enough to prevent sticking without adding unnecessary fat.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to properly season the meat mixture can lead to bland meatballs. Make sure to use steak seasoning and fresh-ground black pepper for flavor.
• Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the outside before the inside is done. Medium-high heat is ideal for even cooking without charring.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

• Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat meatballs on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with a variety of sides like salad, zucchini noodles, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with dipping sauces for added flavor.

Can I substitute other meats?

Yes! You can use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of meat used.

How do I ensure my Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs stay juicy?

The key is not to overmix when combining ingredients and ensuring you chill them before cooking. This helps keep them moist and tender during grilling.

Are Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs low-carb?

Absolutely! They are low in carbohydrates, making them perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Enjoy comfort food without guilt!

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs offer all the delicious flavors of traditional cheeseburgers while being lower in carbs. Their versatility makes them great for any meal—whether as an appetizer or main dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses or spices to suit your taste! Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful twist on classic comfort food.