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Easy Savory Mini Turkey Cheddar Muffin Bites

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These savory mini turkey cheddar muffin bites are tender, fluffy, and packed with protein. Perfect for meal prep, breakfast, lunchboxes, or appetizers, they are a versatile and delicious recipe that solves real problems.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
  • 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion (yellow or white)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Non-stick cooking spray (for greasing muffin tin)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 12-cup standard muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or a little bit of oil, making sure to coat the sides of each cup.
  2. Hydrate the breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup of milk. Stir them together and let them sit for about 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and become a thick, pasty mixture.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: In a small skillet over medium heat, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add 1/2 cup of finely diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, crack 2 large eggs and whisk them lightly. Add the hydrated breadcrumb mixture, the sautéed onion and garlic, 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir everything together until well combined.
  5. Add the turkey: Add 1 pound of ground turkey to the bowl. Using your hands or a rubber spatula, gently fold the turkey into the other ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Portion the batter: Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, divide the mixture evenly among the 12 prepared muffin cups. Each cup should be almost full. Gently press the mixture down with the back of the scoop or your fingers to compact it.
  7. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. The bites are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F (74°C).
  8. Cool and release: Let the muffin bites cool in the pan for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, run a butter knife around the edge of each cup to loosen the bites, then gently lift them out. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For best texture, use 93% lean ground turkey and hydrate the breadcrumbs. Do not overmix the batter. Let the bites cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing to prevent sticking. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko or almond flour. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese. These bites freeze well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey muffin bites, savory muffins, mini turkey cheddar bites, high protein snack, meal prep, gluten-free option, keto option

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/easy-savory-mini-turkey-cheddar-muffin-bites/