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Instant Pot Turkey Meatballs & Rice - Turkey meatballs: craft tender, flavorful Instant Pot turkey meatballs with golden yellow rice. A complete, easy-to-make d

Instant Pot Turkey Meatballs & Rice

Turkey meatballs: craft tender, flavorful Instant Pot turkey meatballs with golden yellow rice. A complete, easy-to-make dinner perfect for any weeknight.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons gluten-free panko
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
  • 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, gluten-free panko, lemon zest, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined. Roll into about 16 meatballs (about 1-2 inches in diameter).
  2. Press the SAUTE button on the Instant Pot. Let it heat slightly, then add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the meatballs (you may need to cook them in 2 batches) and brown them on one side. Swirl the pot to get oil under each meatball. Flip to brown on another side for 1-2 minutes. Continue until all meatballs are browned on all sides (they don't need to be cooked through). Transfer to a plate.
  3. Turn the Instant Pot off for a moment if too hot. Press SAUTE again and add the jasmine rice and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the liquid and spices as per your recipe, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any brown bits. Return the browned meatballs to the pot.
  4. Close the Instant Pot lid, set to MANUAL or high pressure, and cook for 4 minutes. Once done, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
  5. Carefully remove the meatballs from the rice and transfer to a serving plate. Fluff the yellow rice with a fork. Serve with the meatballs. Enjoy!

Notes

- To ensure the turkey meatballs are moist and tender, avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. Gently combine until just incorporated.
- When browning the meatballs, ensure your Instant Pot is hot enough to get a good sear, but not so hot that the fond burns. Adjust the 'SAUTE' setting if needed to prevent scorching.
- For food safety, ensure ground turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). While the meatballs are browned first, they will finish cooking within the Instant Pot.
- Leftover turkey meatballs and rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.