Low Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
This easy low carb, high protein meal combines flavorful turkey meatballs with fresh herbs and cheese for a satisfying dish. Perfect for a quick dinner, it pairs wonderfully with salad or low carb sides.
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
Instructions
- Step 1: Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Shape the mixture into walnut-sized meatballs using your hands.
- Step 2: Heat a nonstick pan with a small amount of fat over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cover the pan with a lid.
- Step 3: Cook the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip them to the other side. Optionally, cook the sides as well for even browning.
- Step 4: Serve immediately with a fresh salad, cauliflower rice, or zoodles for a complete high protein, low carb meal.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes or grated Parmesan to the meatball mixture.
- Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
- Add chopped spinach instead of zucchini for a different vegetable twist.
Storage
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through. These meatballs can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw thoroughly before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked.
Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They store well and reheat easily, making them perfect for preparing ahead for quick lunches or dinners.
PrintLow Carb High Protein Turkey Meatballs Recipe
This easy low carb, high protein turkey meatballs recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Packed with lean ground turkey, fresh herbs, and parmesan cheese, these meatballs are cooked on the stovetop for a juicy, flavorful dish that pairs well with salad or low carb sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 walnut-sized meatballs (serves 3-4) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 8oz / 220g ground turkey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp zucchini, shredded
- 2 tbsp mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp green pesto
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or preferred cooking fat
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, minced garlic, chopped basil, shredded zucchini, shredded mozzarella, green pesto, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into walnut-sized meatballs, ensuring they are compact and uniform for even cooking.
- Heat the pan: Place a nonstick skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of olive oil or cooking fat to prevent sticking.
- Cook the meatballs: Arrange the meatballs in the pan and cover with a lid to retain moisture. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Flip and finish cooking: Carefully flip the meatballs to cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are cooked through. Optionally, cook the sides by tilting the pan and rolling meatballs to brown evenly.
- Serve: Remove the meatballs from the pan and serve hot with a fresh salad, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles for a satisfying low carb, high protein dinner.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh basil and shred the zucchini finely to blend well into the meatballs.
- Ensure the pan is covered while cooking to keep the meatballs moist.
- You can substitute mozzarella with parmesan cheese or any other mozzarella variant for different flavors.
- Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
- These meatballs can be prepared in advance and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
Keywords: low carb, high protein, turkey meatballs, healthy dinner, easy recipe, gluten free, quick meal
