Baked Turkey Zucchini Meatballs

These Baked Turkey Zucchini Meatballs are a healthy and flavorful option, perfect for busy weeknights. They can be served with pasta, in a sub, or alongside a salad.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Meatball Ingredients

2 pounds ground turkey meat Juicy and tender, a healthy alternative to beef.
1 tablespoon olive oil Adds rich flavor and keeps meatballs moist.
3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the dish with a fragrant aroma.
2 large eggs Act as a binder for the meatballs.
3.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning Adds depth and warmth.
to taste salt and ground black pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.
2 cups zucchini, finely grated and drained Offers moisture and nutritious boost.
1 small red onion, grated Adds sweetness and moisture.

Marinara Sauce Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil Used to sauté the garlic.
3 cloves garlic, minced Intensifies the marinara's flavor.
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes Forms the heart of the flavorful sauce.
1 teaspoon salt For seasoning the marinara.
0.5 teaspoon black pepper Balances the acidity of tomatoes.
0.5 teaspoon sugar Cuts the acidity of the tomatoes.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning Adds flavor to the sauce.
0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Gives a subtle kick of heat.

Method

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey meat, olive oil, minced garlic, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
Scoop out two tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll into firm balls. Place on a prepared baking sheet.

Baking

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and thoroughly cooked.

Making the Marinara Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the marinara sauce. Warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute or until golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, sugar, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Finishing

Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the marinara sauce, gently stirring to coat them evenly.
Serve warm, over pasta, in a sub, or with a salad.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding grated parmesan cheese or fresh herbs. You can also substitute ground turkey with lean chicken or a meat-free blend for variations.