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Garlic Butter Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles

Garlic Butter Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles


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  • Author: Paula
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Description

Looking for a low-carb, flavor-packed meal that’s satisfying and healthy? These Garlic Butter Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles are exactly what your dinner routine needs. Juicy, tender turkey meatballs are seared and simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce, then served over fresh zucchini noodles for a light yet comforting dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or clean-eating meal prep.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Turkey Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground turkey

  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb option)

  • 1 egg

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Juice of ½ lemon

  • 2 tbsp chicken broth or water

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Zucchini Noodles:

  • 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • Pinch of salt


Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, salt, pepper, and onion powder.

  2. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep them tender.

  3. Form into 1 ½-inch meatballs (you should get about 16).

  4. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  5. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning to brown all sides, about 6–8 minutes total.

  6. Remove meatballs and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

  2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Stir in lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

  4. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then return meatballs to the pan.

  5. Simmer meatballs in the sauce for another 4–5 minutes, until cooked through.

  6. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Cook the Zucchini Noodles

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter in a separate pan over medium heat.

  2. Add spiralized zucchini and sauté for 2–3 minutes, just until tender but not mushy.

  3. Season with a pinch of salt.

  4. Remove from heat and let any excess moisture drain if needed.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

  1. Divide zucchini noodles among plates or bowls.

  2. Top with garlic butter turkey meatballs and spoon extra sauce over everything.

  3. Garnish with more parsley or Parmesan if desired.

  4. Serve immediately while hot and fresh.

Notes

Don’t Overmix – Gently combine ingredients to keep meatballs tender and juicy.
Brown for Flavor – Searing the meatballs adds a deep, savory crust.
Control Moisture – Don’t overcook zucchini noodles or they’ll release too much water.
Spice It Up – Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
Prep Ahead – Make meatballs in advance and freeze for quick weeknight meals.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Cuisine: American