Easy Low Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs
introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy meal that’s packed with flavor, then these Easy Low Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs are just what you need. They are simple to make, require only a few ingredients, and are perfect for a weeknight dinner. Plus, they’re low in carbs and high in protein, making them an excellent choice for anyone following a healthy eating plan.
why make this recipe
Making these turkey meatballs is worthwhile for several reasons. First, they are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. Using ground turkey, you get lean protein without the extra fat that can come from other meats. Additionally, this recipe contains healthy vegetables like zucchini and fresh herbs, making it nutritious and flavorful.
You’ll also find this recipe very adaptable. You can easily pair these meatballs with various sides, from salads to low-carb options like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. This flexibility ensures that you’ll never get bored with the dish. Lastly, the meatballs are easy to prepare and cook quickly, making them an excellent choice for busy schedules.
how to make Easy Low Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs
Making these turkey meatballs is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- 8oz / 220g ground turkey
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp basil (chopped)
- 2 tbsp zucchini (shredded)
- 2 tbsp mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 tsp green pesto
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions:
Mix Ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add the ground turkey, minced garlic, chopped basil, shredded zucchini, shredded mozzarella cheese, green pesto, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
Combine: Use your hands or a spoon to mix all the ingredients until they are well combined. Make sure not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Form Meatballs: After the mixture is combined, take a small portion (about the size of a walnut) and roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the meat mixture has been shaped into meatballs.
Cook Meatballs: Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add a little bit of fat—this can be olive oil or even cooking spray—to the pan. Once the pan is hot, place the meatballs in it carefully. Cover the pan with a lid.
Flip and Cook: After about 4-5 minutes, check to see if the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip the meatballs over to cook the other side. You may also want to roll them to cook the sides for even cooking.
Serve: Once cooked through and no longer pink inside, remove the meatballs from the pan. Serve them hot with a salad, cauliflower rice, or zoodles for a filling low-carb dinner.
how to serve Easy Low Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs
These turkey meatballs are versatile and can be served in several delicious ways. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad for a light meal. Simply toss some greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing, and you have a perfect side.
Another great option is to serve them over cauliflower rice. This low-carb substitute for regular rice can soak up the flavors of the meatballs and add a nice texture to your meal. You can also spiralize zucchini to make zoodles, creating a great base for the meatballs. For a heartier twist, they can be served in a wrap with your choice of vegetables.
Don’t forget to add some marinara sauce on top or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra touch of flavor. Each serving can be customized to your taste, making it easy to create a meatball meal that everyone will enjoy.
how to store Easy Low Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because they are so tasty!), you can store the turkey meatballs easily. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Make sure they are at room temperature before sealing the container.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. The meatballs will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Easy Low Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs
Here are a few tips to ensure your turkey meatballs turn out perfect every time:
Don’t Overmix: When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Gentle handling will keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to get creative and add in other veggies like grated carrots or chopped spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Experiment With Spices: If you’re looking for more flavor, experiment by adding different spices or herbs. Oregano, parsley, and even crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice touch.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check if the meatballs are thoroughly cooked. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Stay Moist: If you find the meatballs a bit dry, consider adding a tiny bit of chicken broth or an egg to the mix. This will help keep them moist during cooking.
variation
You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For example, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply omit the mozzarella cheese and choose a dairy-free cheese alternative instead.
For a spicier version, you can add chopped jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the mix. If you want to make these meatballs more interesting, try adding some chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for an added flavor punch.
If you’re not a fan of turkey, you can substitute it with ground chicken or lean beef. Each option will create a slightly different flavor profile, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking.
FAQs
1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and shape the meatballs a day before and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just cook them as directed.
2. What can I serve these meatballs with?
These meatballs can be served with various sides, such as salads, cauliflower rice, zoodles, or even on a sub with your favorite toppings.
3. Are these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is gluten-free as it does not contain any bread crumbs or flour. However, always check the labels of any pre-packaged ingredients, such as pesto, to ensure they are gluten-free.
4. Can I bake these meatballs instead of cooking them on the stove?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and slightly golden.
5. What can I add to the meatball mix for more flavor?
You can add additional spices or herbs such as Italian seasoning, paprika, or a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor. Feel free to get creative with your seasonings!
With these Easy Low Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs, you’ll have a satisfying and nutritious meal that the entire family will enjoy. Happy cooking!
Print
Easy Low Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten-Free
Description
Quick and healthy turkey meatballs that are low in carbs and high in protein, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 8 oz / 220 g ground turkey
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp basil (chopped)
- 2 tbsp zucchini (shredded)
- 2 tbsp mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 tsp green pesto
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients in a large mixing bowl: ground turkey, minced garlic, chopped basil, shredded zucchini, shredded mozzarella cheese, green pesto, salt, and pepper.
- Mix all ingredients until well combined without overmixing.
- Form small walnut-sized meatballs from the mixture.
- Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat, add a bit of fat, and place the meatballs in the pan carefully.
- Cover the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until golden brown, then flip the meatballs to cook the other side.
- Ensure they are cooked through and serve hot with desired sides.
Notes
Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender. Experiment with veggies and spices for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: turkey meatballs, low carb, high protein, healthy dinner, easy recipe