Go Back
Adam

Veggie-Packed Turkey Meatballs – Healthy, Juicy and Oven-Baked for Easy Family Dinners

Veggie-Packed Turkey Meatballs are the perfect balance of healthy, juicy, and comforting. Made with lean ground turkey and loaded with finely chopped vegetables, these meatballs stay incredibly moist while delivering extra nutrients in every bite—without sacrificing flavor. They’re ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, and family-friendly meals, especially if you’re looking for lighter alternatives to traditional meatballs. Baked instead of fried and simmered gently in marinara sauce, these turkey meatballs are tender, flavorful, and versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, vegetables, or even enjoy on their own. This is the kind of recipe that proves healthy food can still be deeply satisfying.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatballs
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • ¼ cup onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup fresh spinach finely chopped
  • 1 small zucchini grated and excess moisture squeezed out
  • 1 cup roasted mixed vegetables finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • These ingredients create meatballs that are tender juicy, savory, and packed with hidden veggies.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Box grater
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Meatballs
Step 1:
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
  1. Grate the zucchini and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean towel or paper towels.
Step 3:
  1. In a large bowl, add the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion, spinach, zucchini, roasted vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4:
  1. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5:
  1. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into meatballs.
Step 6:
  1. Place the meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Bake & Finish
Step 7:
  1. Bake the meatballs for 18–22 minutes, until cooked through and lightly golden.
Step 8:
  1. Warm the marinara sauce in a skillet or saucepan over low heat.
Step 9:
  1. Transfer the baked meatballs into the marinara sauce.
Step 10:
  1. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to absorb flavor.
Step 11:
  1. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Freezing:
Freeze cooked meatballs (with or without sauce) for up to 2 months
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave
🥄 Variations
Extra cheesy: Add grated Parmesan-style cheese
Low-carb: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs
Spicy: Add chili flakes
Kid-friendly: Finely chop veggies for hidden texture
Herb-forward: Add fresh parsley or basil
Each variation keeps the meatballs healthy, moist, and versatile.
❓ 10 FAQs
Are turkey meatballs dry?
Not with added vegetables—they stay juicy.
Can I pan-fry instead of bake?
Yes, but baking is lighter.
Can kids eat these?
Absolutely—great way to sneak veggies in.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, lean protein and vegetables.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes, perfect for meal prep.
Do they fall apart?
No, the egg and breadcrumbs bind them well.
Can I skip marinara?
Yes, they’re delicious on their own.
Are these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, great for batch cooking.
What pairs well with them?
Pasta, rice, vegetables, or salad.
🏁 Conclusion
Veggie-Packed Turkey Meatballs are proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean boring food. Juicy, flavorful, and loaded with vegetables, they’re a smart, satisfying option for any meal of the week.
Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple.