Turkey & Zucchini Meatballs with Tomato Sauce (Just 380 Calories!)
Kinz
Light, lean, and loaded with flavor — these healthy turkey meatballs are made with juicy zucchini, savory parmesan, and herbs, then baked until golden and simmered in a rich, no-sugar-added tomato sauce. Paired with fiber-rich whole wheat pasta, this is your go-to comfort food makeover that keeps things light without sacrificing flavor.
💪 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🧆 Baked, not fried – lower in fat, still full of flavor
🍝 Served over whole wheat pasta for fiber & energy
✅ All in at ~380 calories per serving!
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 1 | ~380 Calories)
For the Meatballs:
100g lean ground turkey – ~120 kcal
½ cup grated zucchini (60g) – ~10 kcal
1 tbsp whole wheat breadcrumbs (10g) – ~40 kcal
1 tbsp grated parmesan (5g) – ~20 kcal
½ clove garlic, minced (2g) – ~5 kcal
¼ tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Sauce & Pasta:
½ cup low-sodium tomato sauce (120g) – ~60 kcal
½ tsp olive oil (2g) – ~20 kcal
½ cup cooked whole wheat pasta (75g) – ~90 kcal
Fresh basil(optional, for garnish)
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👩🍳 How to Make Turkey & Zucchini Meatballs
1. Preheat the Oven
Set to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Meatballs
In a bowl, mix together turkey, zucchini, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Roll into 10–12 mini meatballs.
3. Bake
Place the meatballs on your sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.
4. Simmer the Sauce
While meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Add the Meatballs
Transfer the baked meatballs into the simmering sauce. Let them cook together for another 3–4 minutes.
6. Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the whole wheat pasta per package instructions. Drain.
7. Plate & Serve
Spoon the pasta onto a plate, top with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: ~380 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 7g
Sugars: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Sodium: 400mg
Iron: 20% DV
🧠 Great for meal prep, macro-friendly diets, or anyone looking for a clean, filling dinner.
🧠 Healthy Swaps & Tips
🧀 Add extra parmesan or part-skim mozzarella on top for a cheesy finish
🌿 Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for lower carbs
🍅 Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to boost fiber
🍽️ Meal prep: Double the meatballs & sauce and store in the fridge for up to 3 days
📌 Pin This Recipe to Your Low Calorie Dinners Board!
Comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy. These turkey zucchini meatballs are the perfect balance of light, hearty, and wholesome. Save this recipe and follow @LowCalorieFoodie for more meals under 500 calories 🙌
