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Crockpot Turkey Quinoa Meatballs

Crockpot Turkey Quinoa Meatballs
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These Crockpot Turkey Quinoa Meatballs are a wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish combining lean turkey and protein-rich quinoa. Slow-cooked in marinara sauce, the meatballs are tender, juicy, and perfect for busy nights or meal prep, offering a healthy and family-friendly meal option.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • ½ cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked according to package instructions
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¾ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil blend)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse ½ cup of quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions until tender, then set aside to cool.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, 1 pound of lean ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, 2 eggs, whole wheat breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly using clean hands or a spoon to blend all ingredients evenly without overworking the mixture.
  3. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into uniform 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a lined plate or tray to prepare for cooking.
  4. Arrange in the Crockpot: Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of your crockpot. Carefully nestle the meatballs inside the sauce, then pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the top to coat all the meatballs evenly.
  5. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook the meatballs on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, allowing the meatballs to become moist, tender, and fully infused with the sauce flavors.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked through and juicy, carefully remove the meatballs with a slotted spoon. Serve hot with your favorite sides such as spaghetti, zoodles, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Don’t skip rinsing quinoa to remove bitterness and ensure a better flavor.
  • Keep meatballs consistent in size (1.5 inches) for even cooking.
  • Use lean ground turkey to reduce excess grease and maintain a healthy dish.
  • Avoid overmixing to prevent dense meatballs and keep them tender.
  • Use enough marinara sauce to keep meatballs moist throughout crockpot cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, quinoa, crockpot recipe, healthy dinner, easy meal prep, slow cooker meatballs, lean protein

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/crockpot-turkey-quinoa-meatballs/