Spoon Simple
Turkey Meatball Skillet with Zucchini Noodles
Lean turkey meatballs simmered in a flavorful marinara sauce, served over healthy zucchini noodles for a light yet satisfying dinner. This quick meal is packed with protein and fresh flavors.
Prep 20 min
Cook 30 min
Total 50 min
Serves 4
Ingredients
Step 1 — For the Turkey Meatballs
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Step 2 — For the Skillet
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized or julienned
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- 1
Make Meatball Mixture
In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Do not overmix. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- 2
Brown Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove meatballs from skillet and set aside.
- 3
Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- 4
Simmer Sauce and Meatballs
Pour the marinara sauce and water (or broth) into the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through.
- 5
Prepare Zucchini Noodles and Serve
While the meatballs simmer, prepare your zucchini noodles using a spiralizer or julienne peeler. Just before serving, add the zucchini noodles to the skillet with the sauce and meatballs and toss gently for 1-2 minutes, just to warm them through (they should remain slightly crisp). Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition per serving: 490 cal · 42g protein · 30g carbs · 25g fat · 8g fiber
For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Verify ingredients for allergens, cooking times, and safe internal temperatures before serving.
