Description
These Zucchini Meatballs with Ground Beef are a delicious and healthy twist on classic meatballs. Grated zucchini adds moisture and nutrition, while Parmesan and herbs bring rich flavor. Baked to perfection and served with marinara sauce, they’re perfect over pasta or as a hearty main dish.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium zucchini (grated and excess moisture squeezed out)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a tough texture.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Olive Oil: Brush or lightly drizzle olive oil on top of the meatballs to help with browning and moisture retention during baking.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and fully cooked through.
- Warm the Sauce: While the meatballs bake, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: After baking, transfer the meatballs into the warmed marinara sauce and simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors and add moisture.
- Serve: Serve the zucchini meatballs warm, either as a main dish, over pasta, or in a sub roll for a tasty sandwich option.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meat alternative.
- For gluten-free meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- If preferred, cook the meatballs in a skillet on the stovetop, turning them to brown on all sides instead of baking.
