Cottage Cheese Turkey Meatballs
These tender turkey meatballs combine lean ground turkey with smoothly blended low-fat cottage cheese for added moisture and protein. Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, basil, and black pepper provide simple savory flavor, while a quick skillet browning creates a golden exterior before the meatballs finish cooking in the oven.
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Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- ½ cup small-curd low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 large egg for binding
- 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey breast
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon 1% milk
For Browning
- 2 tablespoons canola oil divided as needed; another neutral cooking oil, such as vegetable oil, may also be used
Instructions
- Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) so it is fully heated when the browned meatballs are ready to bake.
- Add the cottage cheese and 1% milk to a blender or food processor. Process for approximately one minute, or until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform.
- Transfer the blended cottage cheese mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the ground turkey, egg, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, dried basil, and black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the turkey mixture.
- Divide and shape the mixture into 15 evenly sized meatballs to promote consistent cooking.
- Place a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of the canola oil.
- Arrange the meatballs in the heated skillet and cook, turning as necessary, until their surfaces are browned on all sides.
- Transfer the browned meatballs to a rack positioned over a baking sheet. If the meatballs need to be cooked in batches, repeat the browning process using the remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Place the browned meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. They are fully cooked when the centers reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve the cooked turkey meatballs alongside pasta, tuck them into sandwiches, or slice them and use them as a pizza topping.