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When it comes to comfort food, meatballs hold a special place in the hearts of many. They are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making them a popular choice for appetizers, main dishes, or even meal prep for the week ahead. In this recipe, we take the classic meatball to new heights with a delightful twist—Creamy Jalapeño Popper Turkey Meatballs. This dish combines the rich creaminess of cheese, the spicy kick of jalapeños, and the savory goodness of ground turkey, creating a flavor fusion that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Creamy Jalapeño Popper Turkey Meatballs

Discover a mouthwatering twist on traditional meatballs with Creamy Jalapeño Popper Turkey Meatballs. This easy-to-make recipe combines lean ground turkey with rich cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and zesty jalapeños for a deliciously creamy and spicy treat that's perfect for any occasion. Ideal for parties or cozy nights in, these meatballs come with a creamy dip that enhances their flavor. Impress your guests and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and exciting!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/4 cup jalapeños, finely diced (use fresh or pickled based on preference)

1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (white and green parts)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)

1 large egg

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Dip:

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tbsp lime juice

Pinch of salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional: additional sliced jalapeños for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.

    Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground turkey, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, chopped green onions, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until just combined; take care not to overmix to ensure the meatballs remain tender.

      Form the Meatballs: Scoop out approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place the formed meatball onto the prepared baking sheet. Continue this process until all the mixture is shaped into meatballs, resulting in about 20-24 meatballs, depending on your desired size.

        Bake the Meatballs: Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes. They should be nicely browned and fully cooked, with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C).

          Prepare the Creamy Dip: While the meatballs are baking, take a small bowl and whisk together the mayonnaise and lime juice until smooth. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting the lime juice to your taste preference.

            Serve: Once baking time is complete, remove the meatballs from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Arrange the meatballs on a serving platter. For a burst of color and heat, top with additional sliced jalapeños if desired.

              Enjoy: Serve the warm meatballs alongside the creamy dip for dipping. These flavorful bites make an excellent appetizer for gatherings or can be enjoyed as a tasty main dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | Serves 4-6