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Bowl of healthy turkey meatball soup with star pasta, fresh dill, and vibrant vegetables on a wooden table

Healthy Turkey Meatball Soup

This healthy turkey meatball soup is a delightful blend of nourishing ingredients, featuring tender turkey meatballs and vibrant vegetables in a flavorful broth. Easy to prepare and perfect for kids, it’s a wholesome meal packed with protein and fiber.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 large carrots (1 finely chopped and 1 grated on the large holes of a box grater)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 bunch chard, stemmed and finely chopped
  • 1 pound ground white meat turkey
  • 1 large zucchini (about 10 ounces), grated on the large holes of a box grater
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons dill, finely chopped
  • 6 ounces star-shaped pasta or pastina

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the celery, onion, and chopped carrot. Cook, stirring often, until softened and slightly browned, about 5 minutes. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  • Stir in the chard and cook until wilted and tender, approximately 5 minutes. Add 12 cups of water, bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes to develop the flavor. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Prepare the meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated zucchini, grated carrot, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon dill, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Mix thoroughly, then shape into mini meatballs, about 1 teaspoon each, yielding roughly 44 meatballs.
  • Gently drop the meatballs into the simmering soup in batches to prevent sticking. Cover and cook until the meatballs are completely cooked through, 6-8 minutes. Skim any foam from the surface as needed.
  • Stir in the star pasta and cook until tender, stirring occasionally, for about 7 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining dill for a fresh finish. Serve piping hot and enjoy!