This pork meatball recipe is super versatile! Turn it into a turkey meatball recipe or use beef or lamb if that's what you have on hand with the tips below.

Meatballs are the perfect thing to make right now. They're super versatile,  a total comfort food, and they're a big time crowd pleaser – my own son has loved this recipe since he was a baby!

This pork meatball recipe also freezes really well so make a double or triple batch and stock that freezer. I like to pop one or two meatballs out of the freezer at a time for my son. It's the perfect easy protein for lunch or if what we're eating for dinner isn't kid-friendly.

Grocery shopping is a little odd right now to say the least so make sure to check out my tips below for how to vary the recipe based on what you actually have.

How can I turn this into a Turkey Meatball Recipe?

Want to know a little secret? I actually created this as a turkey meatball recipe for one of our menus! Pork works really well in the recipe too and I recommend giving it a try but if you can't find pork, try making them with ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground beef.

Would this work as a Lamb Meatball Recipe?

Yes! I haven't personally tried using lamb, but it should be delicious. Change up the flavor profile a bit and you'll have a Greek-inspired meatball instead of Italian.

Here's how:

• Sub feta cheese for parmesan if you're using cheese
• Instead of Italian seasoning, use 1/4 tsp each Coriander, Cumin, Garlic, & Oregano
• Add a bit of fresh mint or parsley if you happen to have it on hand
• Omit the tomato paste and zucchini. Add 2 Tbsp lemon juice instead and 1/4 Cup grated red onion instead.

What if I can't find zucchini?

Zucchini is a great addition because it adds both moisture and nutrition! If you can't find zucchini though, don't let that stop you from making this recipe.

You can add moisture in different ways. For example, substitute frozen spinach for the zucchini if you have some. Thaw a 10 oz package of frozen spinach and squeeze all of the moisture out before adding to the meatball ingredients.

Alternatively, try using a fattier meat if you don't have zucchini. However, if you only have lean ground turkey on hand, you can add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil or milk to add some moisture if you like.

What makes this a healthy meatball recipe?

Full of nutritious ingredients, this healthy meatball recipe is definitely something you can feel good about serving your family. Here are some of the highlights:

Pork: With substantial amounts of Thiamine, Selenium, Zinc, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, and Iron, pork is also of course an excellent source of protein.

Zucchini: Rich in many vitamins, zucchini is especially high in Vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function. In addition, the zucchini skin is high in antioxidants. Super low in carbs, zucchini is also a great choice for those following a Keto or low carb diet.

Tomatoes: Packed with antioxidants, tomatoes may help reduce the risk of several kinds of cancer. Furthermore, they contain Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and potassium, many of which most people don't get enough of.

Almond Flour: High in Magnesium, Vitamin E and Potassium, almonds are good for your heart and also help lower LDL cholesterol. One serving of almonds also has as much calcium as 1/4 cup of milk!

Is this recipe Keto-friendly?

Yep! This recipe is totally Keto-friendly as written. It's also Gluten Free and Paleo. In other words, pretty much anyone can enjoy these meatballs!

What should I serve with this Pork Meatball Recipe?

This pork meatball recipe packs in a lot of flavor so you don't necessarily need to serve with a sauce (though you totally can!) I like to serve these with a simple side like sautéed chard. Check out my video on how to chop swiss chard here!

You could of course serve with zoodles, gluten free pasta, or polenta and marinara too!

 

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