Description
These Zucchini Turkey Meatballs are a healthy and flavorful twist on classic meatballs, combining lean ground turkey with grated zucchini and Italian seasonings. Baked to perfection, they are moist, tender, and perfect as a main dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini, grated (about 1.5 cups)
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1/3 cup bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil. This will help with easy cleanup after baking.
- Shred zucchini: Using a box grater, grate the zucchini until you have about 1.5 cups of shredded zucchini. This adds moisture and nutrition to your meatballs.
- Mix meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, ground turkey, bread crumbs, egg, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Gently mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Use a small cookie scoop to portion the mixture, then roll each portion into a ball.
- Bake: Arrange the meatballs evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, indicating they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Serve/Store: Serve the meatballs immediately while warm. Alternatively, let them cool completely then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Be sure to not overmix the turkey mixture to keep meatballs tender.
- Using lean ground turkey keeps the meatballs lower in fat.
- Grating the zucchini finely helps it cook evenly and blend into the meatballs.
- You can add marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce when serving.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
