Get ready to wow your guests with the most addictive, pop-in-your-mouth appetizer that will have everyone begging for more! These Itty Bitty Turkey Cheese Bites are not just another boring appetizer - they're a flavor explosion that combines lean ground turkey, melty cheese, and perfectly seasoned breadcrumbs into bite-sized nuggets of pure deliciousness. Whether you're hosting a game day party, looking for a kid-friendly snack, or just craving something quick and tasty, these little bites are about to become your new culinary obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bites
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Using clean hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into small, uniform bite-sized balls, approximately 1-inch in diameter. Ensure each bite is compact and well-formed to prevent crumbling during cooking.
- Place the turkey cheese bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow even heat circulation and proper browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the bites rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to set and cool slightly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm. Optional: Pair with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips
- Mixing Magic: When combining ingredients, use your hands to ensure even distribution. Cold hands work best for preventing the mixture from getting too warm.
- Size Matters: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to create uniform-sized bites. This ensures even cooking and a professional look.
- Don't Overwork the Meat: Mix ingredients just until combined. Overworking can make the bites tough instead of tender.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Dipping Sauce Hack: Prepare 2-3 different dipping sauces to give guests variety. Marinara, ranch, and honey mustard work wonderfully with these bites.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare these bites in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking, making party prep a breeze!
- Freezer Friendly: These bites freeze beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze uncooked bites for up to 3 months - perfect for quick future appetizers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 35kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg
