Tangy Maple Dijon Turkey Meatballs with Quinoa & Roasted Brussels
Looking for a speedy, protein‑rich dinner that still feels indulgent? These turkey meatballs simmer in a maple‑Dijon glaze and sit atop fluffy quinoa with crisp roasted Brussels sprouts. In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a family‑favorite meal that’s both hearty and healthy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (or gluten‑free breadcrumbs)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked quinoa (or instant pre‑cooked)
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220 °C). Toss the Brussels sprouts with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on a baking sheet and roast 20 minutes, turning halfway.
- 2. While the veggies roast, combine turkey, oats, egg, Dijon, maple syrup, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until just combined and form into 12 1‑inch meatballs.
- 3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs for 3–4 minutes on each side, then transfer them to a baking dish.
- 4. In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds, then stir in soy sauce, remaining maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and about 1 tbsp water. Simmer for 2 minutes to create a glaze.
- 5. Pour the glaze evenly over the meatballs and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
- 6. Meanwhile, prepare the quinoa according to package instructions; fluff with a fork.
- 7. To assemble, place a generous scoop of quinoa on each plate, top with the roasted Brussels sprouts, then nestle the turkey meatballs on top.
- 8. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the entire plate, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Chef's Note
Pro tip: For a dairy‑free version, replace the dairy‑based quorn with a plant‑based protein crumble, or use a splash of coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a savory twist.
Make-Ahead Tips
The meatballs can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge, or frozen for up to 3 months. Keep roasted Brussels and cooked quinoa refrigerated; they reheat well in the microwave or a quick stir‑in in a skillet.
Substitutions
Swap ground turkey for ground chicken, turkey breast, or lean ground beef. Use almond flour or oat flour for a gluten‑free oat alternative. Replace maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for a milder sweetness.