Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Caprese Meatballs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 3 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 30-32 minutes
  • Yield: 28 meatballs
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

Delicious and juicy Caprese Meatballs made with ground turkey, fresh basil, and mozzarella pearls, baked to perfection. These Italian-inspired meatballs are bursting with flavor and perfect as an appetizer or main dish.

Ingredients

Meatball Mixture

  • 1.25 pounds ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup grated onion (or very finely chopped)
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup unseasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Filling

  • 4 oz. fresh mozzarella "perline" pearl-size balls

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, fresh basil, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently using a fork initially and then your hands to ensure ingredients are well incorporated without overmixing, which keeps the meatballs tender.
  3. Shape Meatballs with Mozzarella Filling: Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and form a small nest in your palm. Place one mozzarella pearl into the center, then cover it completely with more meat mixture, rolling it gently into a smooth ball. Arrange each meatball on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all mixture is used.
  4. Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, until they are cooked through and golden. Serve immediately while warm for best taste and melty mozzarella center.

Notes

  • Ground turkey is leaner than beef and helps keep the meatballs light yet flavorful.
  • Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep the texture tender.
  • Baking ensures even cooking and less mess compared to frying.
  • Use fresh basil and mozzarella pearls to maximize freshness and authentic Caprese flavors.
  • Ensure meatballs are sealed tightly to avoid mozzarella leakage during baking.
  • These meatballs can be served as appetizers, with pasta, or on sandwiches.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://recipekind.com/caprese-meatballs-recipe/