Baked Turkey Zucchini Meatballs

There’s something simply cozy about a homemade batch of meatballs. They can be dressed up for a fancy dinner or served on a weeknight with spaghetti and sauce. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Baked Turkey Zucchini Meatballs. These meatballs are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the addition of finely grated zucchini. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why It’s My Go-To

These Baked Turkey Zucchini Meatballs are a personal favorite for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of ground turkey and zucchini makes them a lighter alternative to traditional meatballs, while still being flavorful and satisfying. Plus, the fact that they bake instead of fry means less mess in the kitchen!

What You’ll Gather

• 2 pounds ground turkey meat (or ground beef if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 3 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste (start with 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper)
• 2 cups zucchini, finely grated and drained
• 1 small red onion, grated
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt (for sauce)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for sauce)
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (for sauce)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (for sauce)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for sauce)

Equipment & Tools

• Mixing bowl – for combining meatball ingredients.
• Baking sheet – to bake the meatballs.
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil – for easy cleanup.
• Grater – to finely grate the zucchini and onion.
• Skillet – for preparing the sauce.
• Spoon – for serving the meatballs.

Make Baked Turkey Zucchini Meatballs: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your meatballs will bake evenly and develop a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Grate 2 cups of zucchini using a box grater or food processor. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and wring it out to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial as it prevents your meatballs from becoming too soggy.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients for Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, drained zucchini, minced garlic, grated red onion, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. You can use a meat thermometer to check that they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the salt, black pepper, sugar, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs are finished baking, add them to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss to coat the meatballs in the delicious tomato sauce. Serve warm over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or simply on their own!

Season-by-Season Upgrades

• Summer: Add fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
• Fall: Incorporate pumpkin puree into the meat mixture for a seasonal twist.
• Winter: Use hearty greens like kale or spinach in the sauce to boost nutrition.
• Spring: Swap in asparagus or peas for a colorful addition to the dish.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Soggy Meatballs: Make sure to drain the zucchini thoroughly before mixing. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess.
• Dry Meatballs: Avoid overcooking them; use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the right internal temperature without drying out.
• Meatballs Falling Apart: If your mixture is too loose, try adding breadcrumbs to help bind them together.
• Flavorless Sauce: Don’t skip the seasoning in the sauce! Adjust salt and spices to your preference for a more flavorful dish.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prep these Baked Turkey Zucchini Meatballs ahead of time for easy meals during the week. Form the meatballs and freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground beef will work perfectly in this recipe, providing a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the meatballs are fully cooked through.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

The best way to check if the meatballs are done is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, they should be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.

Can I bake the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the sauce or in the oven before serving.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These Baked Turkey Zucchini Meatballs are incredibly versatile! Serve them over pasta, in a sub with melted cheese, or alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs
• Healthy Turkey Meatballs
• Easy Vegan Meatballs
• 30-Minute Italian Meatballs

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for Baked Turkey Zucchini Meatballs, be sure to share it with your friends and family! They’ll thank you for bringing such a delicious and healthy meal into their lives.

These meatballs are not only perfect for family dinners but also great for meal prep or a cozy night in. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of a wholesome homemade dish. Happy cooking!