Cheesy Veggie-Stuffed Turkey Meatballs with Hidden Cauliflower Sauce

• 1 lb ground turkey breast
• 1 cup finely grated zucchini (squeezed dry)
• 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or plain)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, grated zucchini, grated carrot, chopped spinach, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Shape the mixture into 16 small meatballs (about 1.5 inches each) and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 20-22 minutes until fully cooked through and golden on the outside.
5. Meanwhile, steam the cauliflower florets until very tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and transfer to a blender or food processor.
6. Add milk and Parmesan to the steamed cauliflower and blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
7. Once meatballs are done, serve them warm topped or dipped with the creamy cauliflower sauce.
8. Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for extra color and flavor.

Chef tips

• Make sure to squeeze excess moisture out of the grated zucchini before mixing to prevent soggy meatballs.
• If you don't have cauliflower, you can substitute with steamed white beans blended with a little milk for a creamy texture.
• Use mild cheddar to keep flavors kid-friendly, but feel free to swap for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different melty cheese effect.
• These meatballs freeze well! Make a double batch and freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a bag for quick meal prep.