Mediterranean Turkey Meatball Sheet Pan Dinner: Easy & Healthy Recipe

Sheet pan dinners are a weeknight lifesaver, and this Mediterranean Turkey Meatball Sheet Pan Dinner takes convenience and flavor to the next level. Packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and the zesty flavors of the Mediterranean, this recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also a healthy and satisfying meal for the whole family. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted to be dairy-free and Whole30 compliant. Get ready to ditch the complicated recipes and embrace this simple yet delicious dinner!

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Easy Cleanup:** Sheet pan dinners mean minimal dishes. One pan and you’re done!
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Loaded with lean turkey protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil, this meal is a nutritional powerhouse.
* **Quick and Convenient:** From prep to table in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Customizable:** Easily swap out vegetables to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
* **Delicious Mediterranean Flavors:** The combination of herbs, spices, and lemon creates a bright and flavorful dish that everyone will love.
* **Gluten-Free and Adaptable:** Naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free and Whole30 compliant with minor adjustments.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

### For the Turkey Meatballs:

* **1 pound ground turkey:** Opt for lean ground turkey (93% lean) for a healthier option. You can also use ground chicken or lamb.
* **1/2 cup almond flour (or gluten-free breadcrumbs):** Almond flour adds moisture and acts as a binder. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a suitable alternative if you don’t have almond flour.
* **1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley:** Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
* **1/4 cup chopped fresh mint:** Provides a cooling and aromatic element.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Essential for that classic Mediterranean flavor.
* **1 teaspoon dried oregano:** A staple in Mediterranean cuisine.
* **1/2 teaspoon ground cumin:** Adds warmth and earthiness.
* **1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional):** For a touch of heat.
* **1 large egg:** Helps bind the meatballs together.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** Adds moisture and flavor.
* **Salt and pepper to taste:** Season generously for optimal flavor.

### For the Vegetables:

* **1 red bell pepper, chopped:** Adds sweetness and color.
* **1 yellow bell pepper, chopped:** Contributes to the visual appeal and adds a slightly different flavor profile.
* **1 zucchini, chopped:** A mild and versatile vegetable that complements the other flavors.
* **1 red onion, chopped:** Adds a pungent and slightly sweet flavor.
* **1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved:** Burst of sweetness and acidity.
* **1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved:** Provides a salty and briny flavor that’s characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
* **4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (optional, omit for dairy-free):** Adds a creamy and tangy element. Look for dairy-free feta alternatives.
* **2 tablespoons olive oil:** Coats the vegetables and helps them roast evenly.
* **1 tablespoon lemon juice:** Brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
* **1 teaspoon dried oregano:** Enhances the Mediterranean flavor.
* **1/2 teaspoon garlic powder:** Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
* **Salt and pepper to taste:** Season to taste.

### For Serving (optional):

* **Fresh parsley, chopped:** For garnish.
* **Lemon wedges:** For squeezing over the dish.
* **Tzatziki sauce:** A classic Mediterranean yogurt-based sauce that complements the flavors perfectly.
* **Hummus:** Another great Mediterranean dip option.
* **Pita bread or quinoa:** For serving as a complete meal.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large baking sheet:** The key to a sheet pan dinner!
* **Large bowl:** For mixing the meatball ingredients.
* **Small bowl:** For tossing the vegetables with olive oil and seasonings.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Parchment paper (optional):** For easy cleanup.

## Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide

### Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Meatballs

1. **Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).** Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (optional).
2. **In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, almond flour (or breadcrumbs), parsley, mint, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper.**
3. **Gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined.** Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs.
4. **Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.** Aim for about 20-24 meatballs.
5. **Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.**

### Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. **In a separate bowl, combine the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives.**
2. **Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.**
3. **Toss the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.**

### Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Sheet Pan Dinner

1. **Spread the seasoned vegetables around the turkey meatballs on the baking sheet.** Make sure the meatballs and vegetables are in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
2. **Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.** The internal temperature of the turkey meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. **If using, remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the meatballs and vegetables.**
4. **Return the sheet pan to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the feta cheese is slightly melted and warmed through.**

### Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. **Remove the Mediterranean Turkey Meatball Sheet Pan Dinner from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.**
2. **Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the dish.**
3. **Serve with tzatziki sauce, hummus, pita bread, or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.**

## Tips and Variations

* **Use Different Vegetables:** Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites. Eggplant, broccoli, carrots, or cauliflower would all work well.
* **Add Chickpeas:** For extra protein and fiber, add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas to the vegetables before roasting.
* **Spice It Up:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for a spicier kick.
* **Make it Whole30 Compliant:** Omit the feta cheese and ensure that your almond flour or breadcrumbs are Whole30 compliant.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to create unique flavor profiles.
* **Meal Prep:** This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the meatballs and chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Simply assemble the sheet pan dinner and bake as directed.
* **Make it Vegetarian/Vegan:** Substitute the ground turkey with plant based ground or use lentils. Omit feta cheese to make it vegan. You may add some crumbled firm tofu before baking for more protein.
* **Air Fryer Option:** You can cook the meatballs in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through. Roast the vegetables separately or add them to the air fryer during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking.

## Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Turkey Meatball Sheet Pan Dinner is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

* **With Tzatziki Sauce:** The creamy, tangy flavor of tzatziki sauce complements the Mediterranean flavors perfectly.
* **With Hummus:** Serve with a side of hummus for dipping the meatballs and vegetables.
* **With Pita Bread:** Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up the meatballs and vegetables.
* **With Quinoa:** For a heartier meal, serve over a bed of cooked quinoa.
* **In a Salad:** Toss the cooked meatballs and vegetables with mixed greens, a lemon vinaigrette, and some crumbled feta cheese for a flavorful salad.
* **As Wraps:** Wrap the meatballs and vegetables in lettuce leaves or gluten-free tortillas for a light and healthy meal.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

* **Calories:** 350-450
* **Protein:** 30-40g
* **Fat:** 20-30g
* **Carbohydrates:** 15-25g
* **Fiber:** 5-8g

(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size.)

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the vegetables may become slightly soggy.

## Conclusion

This Mediterranean Turkey Meatball Sheet Pan Dinner is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its vibrant Mediterranean flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, ditch the takeout and embrace this delicious and convenient sheet pan dinner!

## Recipe Card

**Mediterranean Turkey Meatball Sheet Pan Dinner**

A quick, easy, and healthy sheet pan dinner packed with lean turkey meatballs and vibrant Mediterranean vegetables.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 25 minutes
**Total Time:** 40 minutes
**Servings:** 4-6

**Ingredients:**

* **Turkey Meatballs:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1/2 cup almond flour (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 large egg
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Vegetables:**
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
* 1 zucchini, chopped
* 1 red onion, chopped
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
* 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Mix gently until combined.
3. Form mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
4. In a separate bowl, combine chopped vegetables, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
5. Spread vegetables around meatballs on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
7. If using, sprinkle feta cheese over the meatballs and vegetables. Bake for another 2-3 minutes, or until feta is melted.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, tzatziki sauce, hummus, pita bread, or quinoa.

**Notes:**

* Customize the vegetables to your liking.
* For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes.
* For a Whole30-compliant version, omit the feta cheese.