Dinner

Turkey Meatball Lettuce Wraps with Zucchini Noodles and Marinara Recipe

Name: Turkey Meatball Lettuce Wraps with Zucchini Noodles and Marinara Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Nonstick spray; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 sweet onion, minced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley; 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 pound ground turkey; ¾ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 3 pounds zucchini, spiralized; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups marinara sauce; Parmesan cheese, as needed for garnishing

ByLana Polati October 19, 2025October 19, 2025

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Introduction

These turkey meatballs with zucchini noodles offer a delicious, healthy meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. Packed with flavor and greens, this dish is perfect for meal prep or a family-friendly dinner. Ready in just about 35 minutes, it makes a nutritious choice that everyone will enjoy.

Two rectangular clear glass containers sit side by side on a white marbled surface. Each container holds a layer of green and pale yellow spiralized zucchini noodles at the bottom, creating a curly and light base. On top of the noodles are several bright red tomato sauce-covered meatballs, rich in color and texture, slightly chunky and moist. The meatballs are sprinkled generously with finely grated white cheese and small pieces of fresh green herbs, adding color contrast. The dish looks fresh and vibrant, with all layers clearly visible through the glass containers. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Nonstick spray
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 sweet onion, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 pound ground turkey
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 pounds zucchini, spiralized
½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups marinara sauce
Parmesan cheese, as needed for garnishing

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Step 3: Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to a medium bowl and let it cool slightly. Stir in the parsley, Parmesan, and ground turkey. Season with salt and pepper, then form the mixture into meatballs about 2 tablespoons each. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the oven for 17 to 20 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 5: While the meatballs bake, toss the spiralized zucchini with ½ teaspoon kosher salt in a large colander. Let it sit for 5 minutes to draw out moisture.
Step 6: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the zucchini noodles for 1 minute, then drain thoroughly.
Step 7: Divide the zucchini noodles among four plates or containers. Top with the turkey meatballs and spoon ½ cup marinara sauce over each serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese as desired.
Step 8: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to four days for meal prep convenience.

Tips & Variations

If zucchini noodles are too firm for your family, try spiralizing a softer vegetable like yellow squash or using cooked pasta instead.
For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
Make sure to drain the zucchini noodles well to avoid watery dishes.

Storage

Store cooked meatballs and zucchini noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding marinara sauce to keep the dish moist. Avoid overcooking the zucchini noodles during reheating to maintain their texture.

How to Serve

The image shows two rectangular clear glass containers placed on a white marbled surface, each filled with a dish made of spiralized zucchini noodles at the base, which are pale green with some darker green skin showing. On top of the noodles, there are five evenly spaced round meatballs covered in a rich red tomato sauce. The meatballs are sprinkled generously with white grated cheese and chopped fresh green herbs. The colors create a fresh and vibrant look with the mix of green noodles, red sauce, white cheese, and green herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat thoroughly before serving.