Why Make This Recipe
No Breadcrumbs Pesto Turkey Meatballs are a delicious and healthy option for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty meal without all the carbs. Using ground turkey makes these meatballs lean and full of protein. Plus, the addition of pesto brings a burst of flavor that you won’t be able to resist. They are simple to make, require minimal ingredients, and are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
How to Make No Breadcrumbs Pesto Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 8 oz / 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 all ingredients in a bowl until they are well combined.
- Form walnut-sized meatballs with your hands.
- Cook the meatballs in a nonstick pan with a little bit of oil. Cover with a lid and cook for 4-5 minutes.
- Flip the meatballs to cook the other side. Cook until they are done to your liking.
- Serve with a side of salad, cauliflower rice, or zoodles for a complete high-protein, low-carb dinner.
How to Serve No Breadcrumbs Pesto Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are versatile and can be served in many ways. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with fresh greens for a light salad. For a filling meal, serve them over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles (zoodles). A drizzle of extra pesto on top can elevate the dish even more!
How to Store No Breadcrumbs Pesto Turkey Meatballs
To store leftover meatballs, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat.
Tips to Make No Breadcrumbs Pesto Turkey Meatballs
- For added flavor, try using different herbs like oregano or parsley in the meat mixture.
- Make sure not to overmix the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.
- You can adjust the amount of pesto based on how strong you want the flavor to be.
- If you want extra moisture, you can add a bit of grated carrot or bell pepper to the mixture.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, you can substitute the ground turkey with lean ground beef or chicken. You can also replace the zucchini with shredded carrots or spinach for a different texture and taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and form the meatballs ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them.
2. Are these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, these meatballs do not contain any breadcrumbs, making them a gluten-free option.
3. Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are cooked through.
No Breadcrumbs Pesto Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until they are well combined.
- Form walnut-sized meatballs with your hands.
- Cook the meatballs in a nonstick pan with a little bit of oil. Cover with a lid and cook for 4-5 minutes.
- Flip the meatballs to cook the other side. Cook until they are done to your liking.
- Serve with a side of salad, cauliflower rice, or zoodles for a complete high-protein, low-carb dinner.