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Turkey Meatballs with Rice served on a ceramic plate with fluffy seasoned rice, fresh parsley and homemade turkey meatballs.

Turkey Meatballs with Rice

A healthy, protein-rich family dinner featuring juicy homemade turkey meatballs served over fluffy seasoned rice. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep and freezer-friendly cooking.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 470
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey Meatballs
  • 500 g lean turkey mince
  • 60 g fresh breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 small onion grated
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Rice
  • 250 g long-grain white rice
  • 500 ml chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • ½ onion finely diced
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Digital meat thermometer recommended
  • 1 Tongs or spatula
  • 1 Baking tray optional
  • 1 Saucepan with lid
  • 1 Large frying pan or skillet
  • 1 Box grater
  • 1 Chef's Knife
  • 1 Chopping board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Large Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step 1
  1. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.
  2. Cook the onion in butter until softened before adding the garlic.
  3. Add the rice and stir for one minute.
  4. Pour in the stock, cover and cook for 15–18 minutes.
  5. Rest for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 2
  1. In a large bowl combine:
  2. Turkey mince
  3. Breadcrumbs
  4. Egg
  5. Onion
  6. Garlic
  7. Herbs
  8. Paprika
  9. Salt
  10. Pepper
  11. Mix gently until combined.
Step 3
  1. Roll into approximately sixteen equal meatballs.
  2. If the mixture feels sticky, refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Step 4
  1. Heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook the meatballs for 8–10 minutes, turning regularly until browned and fully cooked.
  3. Alternatively, bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 18–22 minutes.
  4. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).
Step 5
  1. Allow the meatballs to rest for five minutes.
  2. Serve over fluffy rice.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy.

Notes

  • Don't overmix the turkey mixture.
  • Grated onion keeps the meatballs moist.
  • Fresh breadcrumbs create softer meatballs.
  • Resting the meatballs improves their texture.
  • Brown rice can replace white rice.
  • Double the recipe for easy meal prep.