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Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles and Tomato Basil Sauce

Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles and Tomato Basil Sauce

Dinner
Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
25min
Servings
4
Calories
380
Chef's Note

For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the tomato sauce. If you're short on time, you can skip chilling the meatballs, but they may be slightly less firm when cooking. The nutritional yeast adds a cheese-like flavor without dairy, but can be omitted if you prefer.

Tags
gluten-free
dairy-free
soy-free
peanut-free
low-carb
weeknight-friendly
Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey

  • 1 large egg

  • 1/3 cup almond flour

  • 3 cloves, minced garlic

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium, diced onion

  • 28 ounces (1 can) crushed tomatoes

  • 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil leaves

  • 4 medium zucchini

  • 1/4 teaspoon (optional) red pepper flakes

  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)

Instructions
  • 1

    In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, almond flour, 1 minced garlic clove, half of the dried oregano and basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

  • 2

    Form the mixture into 16 meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place on a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.

  • 3

    While meatballs are chilling, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

  • 4

    Add remaining minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • 5

    Pour in crushed tomatoes, remaining dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.

  • 6

    In another large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chilled meatballs and brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total.

  • 7

    Transfer the browned meatballs to the tomato sauce, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

  • 8

    While meatballs are cooking, use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles. If you don't have a spiralizer, use a vegetable peeler to create long ribbons.

  • 9

    In a separate pan, sauté the zucchini noodles over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still firm. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes.

  • 10

    Stir most of the fresh basil into the tomato sauce, reserving some for garnish.

  • 11

    Serve the meatballs and sauce over the zucchini noodles. Sprinkle with nutritional yeast if using and garnish with remaining fresh basil.

Nutrition Information (per serving)
380
Calories
32g
Protein
18g
Carbs
21g
Fat

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