Turkey Zucchini Meatballs

Name: Turkey Zucchini Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1 medium zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making these Turkey Zucchini Meatballs because they are flavorful and incredibly moist. Packed with protein and vegetables, they make for a healthy meal that even my family enjoys. I also appreciate how easy they are to prepare – in just a few minutes, I can create a dish that’s both nutritious and kid-friendly. The combination of turkey and zucchini not only adds moisture but also provides a lovely texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:13:27.546Z

Creating these Turkey Zucchini Meatballs was a delightful experience that allowed me to experiment with flavors. The first time I made them, I added some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, and it transformed the dish! The moisture from the zucchini ensures that the meatballs don’t dry out, which is crucial when using lean turkey. I often pair them with a homemade marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

One tip I learned over time is to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini. This simple step ensures the meatballs maintain their structure and prevents them from becoming soggy. Don’t skip on the parsley and garlic—these ingredients really elevate the flavor profile. My family devours them every time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy and flavorful combination of turkey and zucchini
Health-conscious option without compromising on taste
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
Kid-friendly and satisfying for all ages

Understanding Ingredients

The foundation of these Turkey Zucchini Meatballs is undoubtedly the turkey and zucchini. Ground turkey is a lean protein that keeps the meatballs juicy, especially when paired with grated zucchini. This not only enhances moisture but also provides essential nutrients and a subtle sweetness. To get the texture just right, it’s crucial to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini; too much liquid can lead to soggy meatballs. A clean kitchen towel works well for this task.

Parmesan cheese is another star ingredient. It not only adds a savory depth but also helps bind the mixture. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute with nutritional yeast, which will impart a similar cheesy flavor without the lactose. Additionally, consider using whole-wheat breadcrumbs for an extra health boost; they add a nutty flavor and can make the meatballs heartier.

Perfecting Technique

When mixing the meatball ingredients, it’s essential to avoid overmixing the mixture. Overworking can develop the proteins in the turkey, resulting in tough meatballs rather than tender bites. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined; this keeps them light and fluffy. Using a scoop helps ensure uniformity in size, which promotes even cooking and consistent texture throughout. Aim for 1.5-inch meatballs for this recipe to balance cook time and juiciness.

After baking, let the meatballs cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite more flavorful. If you want that extra layer of flavor, consider broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes; just watch closely to avoid burning. The edges will turn a beautiful golden brown, enhancing both the look and taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create delicious Turkey Zucchini Meatballs:

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
1 medium zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to assemble your meatballs!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Turkey Zucchini Meatballs:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Form Meatballs

Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

Drizzle a little olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with marinara sauce, or on their own!

Enjoy your homemade Turkey Zucchini Meatballs!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can incorporate herbs like oregano or basil to the mixture. Serve with whole wheat pasta for a wholesome meal.

Storing and Reheating Meatballs

These Turkey Zucchini Meatballs are perfect for meal prep and can be refrigerated for up to three days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain moisture. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents them from sticking together and allows for easier portioning later.

When it comes time to reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or marinara sauce, covering them until heated through. This technique not only reheats but also adds extra flavor to the meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

While these meatballs shine on their own, they pair exceptionally well with marinara sauce or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze. For a complete meal, serve them on a bed of spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Alternatively, nestle the meatballs in a whole-grain wrap with fresh veggies for a quick lunch.

For a fun twist, consider serving the meatballs as appetizers at your next gathering. Skewer them with toothpicks, and perhaps add a small dollop of marinara on the side for dipping. This makes for a kid-friendly dish that can also please adult palates with its sophisticated flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute chicken for turkey?

Yes, ground chicken can be used as a substitute for turkey if you prefer a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, these meatballs freeze well. Just make sure they're completely cooled before placing them in a freezer bag.

→ Are these meatballs gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.