Meatballs and vegetables on a tray

Delicious Vegetable Meatballs Baked in the Oven

If you are looking for a tasty, healthy, and easy-to-make recipe, baked vegetable meatballs are the perfect choice. This recipe not only combines flavors and textures, but also offers an excellent way to consume fresh vegetables. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences and will surely bring joy to your table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 200 g ground turkey (or you can use chicken, beef, or vegetarian meatballs)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
- A handful of fresh herbs (parsley or dill), chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 bunch of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 eggs
- 100 ml liquid cream
- 200 g grated cheese
- Cherry tomatoes, for decoration (optional)
- Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Preparing the meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey with the finely chopped onion, crushed garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Knead the mixture well until it becomes homogeneous. You can also add spices like paprika or herbs de Provence for extra flavor. Form small, round meatballs the size of a ping-pong ball.

2. Frying the meatballs: In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and fry them on each side until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

3. Preparing the vegetables: In a large pot, add water and a little salt, then bring the diced potatoes and carrots to a boil. Boil for about 10 minutes until they are slightly soft. After removing the potatoes and carrots from the water, add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2-3 minutes. These vegetables can be replaced with any other preferred vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or cauliflower.

4. Assembling the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a baking dish, place the fried meatballs, alternating them with the boiled vegetables. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the liquid cream and add the grated cheese. Pour this mixture evenly over the meatballs and vegetables.

5. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the egg mixture is well set and slightly browned on top.

6. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the meatballs warm, decorated with halved cherry tomatoes for a splash of color and freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or a serving of rice.

Practical Tips

- Ingredient variations: If you want to make a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with soy meatballs or zucchini. You can also use leftover cold roast to create delicious meatballs.
- Baking: If you prefer a healthier option, you can place the meatballs directly in the dish without frying them. Bake them for 10 minutes at 180°C for a less greasy option.
- Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals due to the combination of meat and vegetables. Broccoli, for example, is an excellent source of vitamin C, while carrots provide an important amount of beta-carotene.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use chicken, beef, or even pork, depending on your preferences.
- What other vegetables can I use? You can add zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, or even mushrooms, depending on the season and availability.
- How can I store the meatballs? They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a frying pan.

Serving Suggestions

These vegetable meatballs are perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends, being easy to prepare and full of flavor. You can pair the dish with a garlic yogurt sauce or a summer salad for a fresh contrast. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a cold lemonade are excellent choices to complement the meal.

Personal Note

This recipe has quickly become one of my favorites due to its versatility and the way it brings the family together around the table. Whether I prepare it for an ordinary dinner or a special occasion, baked vegetable meatballs always bring smiles and unforgettable moments. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! Bon appétit!