Toddler turkey, carrot, and apple meatballs

I can't believe my babies are already 10 months old! They are getting so big and learning so many new things all the time. They like being outside right now and going for walks in the stroller. We recently tried the baby swings at the park, which they really enjoyed. But, what they really love right now is food. They are interested in trying everything and want to grab and eat all that they see! They still like their homemade purées, especially with oatmeal or whole milk Greek yogurt. They prefer chunkier foods now though and are trying more finger and table foods all the time. I bought some frozen turkey meatballs and they really enjoyed those, so I decided to make a homemade version that is a little healthier for them. I still cut/break up these meatballs into smaller pieces for them at this point. They are picking up those pieces and feeding themselves.... a messy, but fun, time.

This recipe will make about 27ish meatballs. You can freeze them (place on a clean baking sheet in the freezer just until frozen and then place them all in a freezer bag) and then defrost in the refrigerator as needed. Heat them up in the oven or microwave, or even in an alfredo sauce. They can be eaten cold as well. The spices below are what I used, but you can use so many others like thyme, nutmeg, allspice, parsley, coriander, ginger, and others -- whatever flavors and combinations you want! They are also delicious for adults too - I've popped more than one in my mouth! 

Toddler turkey, carrot, and apple meatballs
1 lb. ground turkey (I use dark meat for moisture and flavor)
1 medium carrot, grated on the small holes of a box grater (about 1/3 cup)
1 medium apple, peeled and grated on the large holes of a box grater (about 1/3 cup)
pinch of salt, optional
a few grinds of black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground sage
1 large egg
about 1/4 to 1/3 cup baby oatmeal cereal (can sub others as well, or use breadcrumbs) 

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Mix all of the ingredients together in a large bowl with your hands (start with 1/4 cup of oatmeal and increase as needed if the mixture is too wet). Roll the mixture about 1 tablespoon at a time and place on the baking sheet (it's okay to place them close together. You can also use two baking sheets).

Bake for about 16-18 minutes, until they are lightly browned and cooked through. Serve or freeze as desired.