bailey.rd :
Turkey Zucchini Meatballs & Marinara
INGREDIENTS:
For the Meatballs
1 pound ground turkey or ground chicken
1 medium zucchini, shredded and squeezed dry
¼ cup whole-grain Italian breadcrumbs
1–2 large garlic cloves, minced
1 large egg, beaten
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Sauce
1 tsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, lightly smashed
2 (24-ounce) jars Rao's Marinara Sauce
2 tbsp on grated Parmesan cheese
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional
Pasta of your choice
Crusty bread, for serving
DIRECTIONS:
Prepare the Meatballs
Shred the zucchini and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey (or chicken), shredded zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, beaten egg, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Mix gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Using about 1 tbsp of the mixture (or a small cookie scoop), roll into meatballs. Set aside.
Brown the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the smashed garlic cloves and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
Simmer in the Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs.
Stir in the 2 tbsp of grated Parmesan and season with black pepper to taste.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
2026-07-07 18:02:50