Easy Oven Baked Zucchini Meatballs Recipe

Indulge in a healthier twist on classic meatballs with this delicious zucchini meatballs recipe. Perfect for a nutritious and satisfying easy weeknight meal!

Looking for a creative way to sneak more veggies into your diet? Look no further than these zucchini meatballs! 

Packed with flavor, these zucchini “meatballs” are a delicious alternative to traditional beef or pork options. Plus, they’re easy to make and are a great meal prep recipe!

Whether you’re a meat lover looking to add more veggies to your plate or a vegetarian searching for a tasty meatless option, these zucchini meatballs are sure to please. 

Get ready to whip up a batch of these flavorful zucchini meatballs that are sure to become a new family favorite!

So, how do you make zucchini meatballs?

How to Make Vegetarian Zucchini Meatballs

Ingredients 

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups grated zucchini or 3 medium sized zucchini
• salt, pepper, fresh basil, and Italian Seasoning
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 beaten large egg
• 1/4 cup parmesan or pecorino cheese

Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. 

Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and sprinkle salt over the zucchini and with the towel, squeeze zucchini, wringing out the excess liquid. The kosher salt helps to draw out the excess water.

Add the zucchini to a large mixing bowl.

Then add in bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasonings, minced garlic cloves, salt and black pepper and eggs.

Mix meatball mixture until all the ingredients are well combined.

Roll the zucchini mixture to form meatballs the size of a small egg, 2-3 inch balls, using your hands or a small cookie scoop. 

Make 12 zucchini balls. You want small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.

Place the veggie meatballs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

How long do you bake zucchini meatballs?

Drizzle a little bit of olive oil on top of the meatballs to help them brown in the oven.

Bake for about 20-25 minutes at 350 until they are golden brown.

Serve the zucchini meatballs hot with a simple tomato sauce, pasta, a loaf of crusty Italian bread or salad.

FAQs

How do you cook zucchini meatballs in a crock pot?

To cook zucchini meatballs in a crockpot, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the meatballs according to your favorite recipe, incorporating grated zucchini into the mixture.
2. Once the meatballs are formed, place them in the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Pour your favorite sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
5. Serve the zucchini meatballs hot, garnished with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Cooking meatballs in a crockpot allows them to simmer slowly in the sauce, infusing them with flavor and ensuring they stay moist and tender. It’s a convenient option for busy days when you want a delicious meal ready and waiting for you at dinner time.

How do you keep vegetable meatballs from falling apart?

To prevent vegetable meatballs, such as zucchini meatballs, from falling apart, follow these tips:

• Squeeze out excess moisture. Before incorporating the grated vegetables into the meat mixture, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This will help the meatballs hold their shape.
• Binders such as eggs, breadcrumbs, or oats help hold the meatballs together. 
• After forming the meatballs, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the ingredients to firm up and helps the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

​Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the recipe. Excess moisture from frozen zucchini can affect the texture of the meatballs.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

​Absolutely! These zucchini meatballs are great for meal prep. Simply cook them according to the recipe instructions, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.

Can I freeze leftover meatballs?

​Yes, these meatballs freeze well. Once cooked, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them until heated through.