Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

Name: Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. lean ground beef; 2 tsp. steak seasoning; 1/2 tsp. black pepper; 1 egg; 6 slices turkey, crumbled; 1/4 cup chopped dill pickle; 4 oz. Swiss cheese, diced

Published: August 10, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy the flavors of cheeseburgers without the carbs that come from buns.
Quick Preparation: These meatballs come together in under an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory combination of turkey and cheese.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a double batch to have leftovers ready to reheat for lunches or snacks throughout the week.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even as part of a salad for a fresh take.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Grilling pan (or stovetop grill pan)
Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your ingredients without making a mess.
Baking sheet: Helps chill the meatballs before cooking, ensuring they hold their shape on the grill.
Grilling pan: Provides even heat distribution, giving your meatballs that perfect grilled flavor.

Ingredients

These low-carb Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs have all the comfort food appeal of grilled Turkey cheeseburgers, without the carbs!

For the Meatballs

1 lb. lean ground beef
2 tsp. steak seasoning (see notes)
1/2 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper
1 egg
6 slices Turkey, crumbled (see notes)
1/4 cup chopped dill pickle (see notes)
4 oz. Swiss cheese, cut into very small cubes (or use other cheese of your choice)
Olive oil for brushing meatballs

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

Crumble the beef into a plastic bowl.
Sprinkle with steak seasoning and black pepper.
Add the egg and mix gently until combined.

Step 2: Prepare Additional Ingredients

Crisp the turkey in a skillet until it’s nice and crunchy.
Dice dill pickles into small pieces.
Cut cheese into very small cubes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add crumbled turkey, diced pickles, and cheese cubes to the beef mixture.
Use your hands to gently combine all ingredients; be careful not to over-mix.

Step 4: Form Meatballs

Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to scoop out portions of the mixture.
Form each portion into a meatball while tucking cheese cubes inside.

Step 5: Chill Meatballs

Put formed meatballs on a small baking sheet and refrigerate for 30-40 minutes to help them keep their shape during cooking.

Step 6: Preheat Grill

As you prepare to cook, place your grilling pan on top of grill grates and preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Step 7: Brush with Olive Oil

Remove meatballs from fridge and brush both sides lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking during grilling.

Step 8: Cook Meatballs

Place meatballs on grilling pan and turn them every 2 minutes so they brown evenly on all sides.

Step 9: Check Doneness

Start checking for doneness after about 15 minutes using an instant-read thermometer until they reach at least 160F/102C.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Serve hot with dipping sauce if desired. Enjoy these flavorful bites right off the grill!

Step 11: Store Leftovers

These meatballs reheat well—consider doubling the recipe so you’ll have plenty left over for quick meals later in the week!

How to Serve Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

These delicious Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.

On a Bun

Serve the meatballs on slider-sized buns for a fun twist on traditional cheeseburgers. Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles.

With Dipping Sauces

Pair the meatballs with your choice of dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mustard for an extra burst of flavor.

Over Salad

Place the meatballs over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to create a filling and healthy meal option.

As Appetizers

Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks for easy serving at parties. They make for great finger food that guests will love.

In a Wrap

Wrap the meatballs in lettuce leaves or tortillas. Add fresh veggies for crunch and flavor, creating a satisfying handheld meal.

On Skewers

Thread the meatballs onto skewers along with vegetables like bell peppers and onions for a colorful presentation on the grill.

How to Perfect Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs, consider these tips that can elevate your cooking game.

Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices enhance flavor significantly compared to dried ones.
Don’t Over-Mix – Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine ingredients gently for tenderness.
Chill Before Cooking – Chilling the formed meatballs helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Check Temperature – Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160F/70C for safe eating.
Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheeses for diverse flavors; cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice kick.
Brush with Olive Oil – This not only prevents sticking but also gives the meatballs a nice golden color when grilled.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement these flavorful bites.

Sweet Potato Fries – A healthier alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch.
Cauliflower Rice – Light and low-carb, cauliflower rice is an excellent base that soaks up flavors from the meatballs.
Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables grilled alongside the meatballs offer a colorful and nutritious addition.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balance to the savory flavors of the meatball dish.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes bring comfort and richness, making them perfect companions.
Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb side, zucchini noodles are fresh and absorb sauces beautifully.
Side Salad – A crisp side salad adds freshness and texture, making it a light counterpoint to rich meatballs.
Baked Beans – Sweet baked beans can provide contrasting flavors that pair well with savory meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will help you create the best dish possible.

Using too lean meat: If you use extra-lean ground beef, your meatballs may be dry. Choose lean ground beef for a juicy texture.
Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing the meat too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine gently to keep them tender and flavorful.
Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the meatballs can cause them to fall apart on the grill. Always refrigerate them for 30-40 minutes before cooking.
Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland meatballs. Use steak seasoning and fresh pepper for great flavor.
Not checking doneness: Cooking without checking internal temperature may leave you with undercooked meatballs. Always ensure they reach at least 160F/70C for safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Ensure the meatballs are completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes or until warm.
Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1–2 minutes or until heated through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs?

Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs pair well with dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ sauce. You can also serve them with salad or veggies.

Can I customize the cheese in Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs?

Absolutely! You can substitute Swiss cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese of your choice, based on your preference.

How do I prevent Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs from sticking?

Brushing the meatballs with olive oil before grilling helps prevent sticking and ensures even browning.

Can I make these Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and chill them ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Are Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free steak seasoning and other gluten-free ingredients, these meatballs are suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cheeseburger Meatballs are a delightful twist on classic comfort food that’s both low-carb and satisfying. Their versatility allows you to experiment with different cheeses and dipping sauces, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy delicious meatballs that everyone will love!

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