These soft, moist turkey meatballs with rice are a nourishing finger food designed especially for babies and toddlers, yet enjoyable for the whole family. Made with simple ingredients and baked until tender, they are easy to prepare, gentle in texture, and perfect for introducing little ones to protein-rich meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These meatballs are incredibly soft, making them ideal for babies who are learning to chew and self-feed. They are naturally rich in iron and protein from the turkey, while the rice helps keep the texture tender and familiar for young eaters. They are freezer-friendly, budget-conscious, and customizable with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Best of all, they work just as well for adults, making mealtime simpler for busy families.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
3/4 cup cooked short- or medium-grain rice (about 150 g)
3 teaspoons sesame oil, divided
1 cup finely chopped vegetables (about 100 g, such as broccoli, carrots, and spinach)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.

Place the vegetables in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped, or chop them very finely by hand.

Heat 1 teaspoon of the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetables and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl.

Add the cooked rice, remaining sesame oil, and garlic powder to the vegetables. Stir until everything is evenly combined. If the rice feels firm, microwave it briefly to soften before mixing.

Add the ground turkey to the bowl and gently mix using your hands just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

With slightly wet hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Place a small oven-safe dish filled with water on the baking sheet alongside the meatballs to create steam while baking.

Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the meatballs halfway through, until fully cooked and lightly golden.

Allow to cool slightly before serving, especially for babies and toddlers.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 20–24 small meatballs, depending on size.

Prep time: about 15 minutes
Cook time: about 20 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes

One to two meatballs is usually sufficient for babies, while toddlers and adults may enjoy several as part of a meal.

Variations

You can substitute ground chicken or beef for the turkey if desired. Different vegetables such as zucchini, sweet potato, or peas work well as long as they are finely chopped. For older toddlers, a pinch of mild spices like ground ginger or onion powder can add extra flavor without overwhelming young palates.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, place the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet with a little water until warmed through. Always check the temperature before serving to children.

FAQs

Is turkey safe for babies?

Yes, turkey is safe for babies when fully cooked and served in a soft, manageable texture, making it an excellent source of iron and protein.

At what age can babies eat these meatballs?

These meatballs are suitable for babies around 6 months and up, as long as they are ready for solids and the meatballs are served soft and appropriately sized.

Why is rice added to the meatballs?

Rice helps keep the meatballs moist and tender, making them easier for babies and toddlers to chew and swallow.

Can I make these meatballs without sesame oil?

Yes, you can substitute sesame oil with a neutral oil such as olive or avocado oil if preferred.

What vegetables work best in this recipe?

Soft vegetables like broccoli, carrots, spinach, zucchini, and sweet potato work very well when finely chopped.

How small should I make the meatballs for babies?

For babies, small meatballs about the size of a large marble or walnut are ideal for grasping and gumming.

Can I cut the meatballs for older babies?

Yes, once babies develop their pincer grasp, you can cut the meatballs into bite-sized pieces.

How do I know the meatballs are fully cooked?

They should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center. Baking for the full time ensures they are safely cooked.

Can adults eat these meatballs too?

Absolutely. They are mild but flavorful and pair well with rice, vegetables, or dipping sauces for adults.

Are these meatballs good for meal prep?

Yes, they are excellent for meal prep since they store and freeze well and reheat easily.

Conclusion

These turkey meatballs with rice are a simple, wholesome option for babies, toddlers, and the rest of the family. Soft, nourishing, and easy to prepare ahead of time, they make mealtimes less stressful while supporting healthy eating habits from the very beginning.

Print