apple, cheddar, & turkey meatballs

New must try recipe:  Apple, Cheddar, & Turkey Meatballs.

Let me start by saying that I really don't care for meatballs and I really can't explain why this is.  And, I should also admit that I'm drawn to recipes that use new and different ingredient combinations.

I was pretty excited about making this recipe because it was so different.  I was really skeptical with this one, because honestly, it didn't smell too appealing once everything was mixed.

I cooked it the next day anyway, and holy cow.  I sat there eating directly out of the crockpot exclaiming, "MMM.  These are A-MAZ-ING!"  (Nothing like the cook really complimenting herself.)  I think part of the reason why I was so surprised was because I don't really care for meatballs, but I think the bulk of it was because I was expecting these to taste like they smelled.  (That smell, by the way?  It went away.)

Anyway, here it is.  This one is on official rotation in our household (which doesn't happen often).  I hope you like them as well as we did.

Apple, Cheddar, & Turkey Meatballs
Stephanie O'Dea, Make It Fast, Cook It Slow
Serves 4 (more like 2, if we're being honest - I'll definitely double up next time)

1.5 lbs. extra lean ground turkey
1 large egg
1 tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. onion powder
1 green apple, peeled & shredded
1/2 C. shredded sharp cheddar (mild cheddar works too)
1/2 C. dried unsweetened cranberries

Use a 4-quart slow cooker.  In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients, using hands.  Make golf-ball size meatballs and place in the crockpot, stagger-stacking.  Cover and cook on low 5-8 hours or on high 4-6 hours.