Pin These Skinny Turkey Meatball Lettuce Wraps offer a vibrant and light twist on traditional Italian-American comfort food. Juicy, herb-infused turkey meatballs are simmered in a bright, zesty homemade marinara sauce and served in crisp lettuce leaves. It is the perfect low-carb solution for those craving the savory satisfaction of a meatball sub without the heavy bread.
Pin This dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you are hosting a casual gathering or looking for a nutritious family meal, these wraps bring a touch of gourmet flair to your table while keeping things light and wholesome.
Ingredients
- For the Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground turkey
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (15 g) gluten-free breadcrumbs (or regular if not gluten-free)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- For the Marinara Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz/425 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Serving:
- 1 large head butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated and washed
- Extra grated Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Mix Meatballs
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 3: Shape
- Roll mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned.
- Step 5: Start Sauce
- While the meatballs bake, make the marinara: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Step 6: Simmer Sauce
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Step 7: Combine
- When meatballs are done, add them to the marinara sauce and gently toss to coat.
- Step 8: Assemble
- To serve, place 2–3 meatballs with sauce in each lettuce leaf. Top with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
- Step 9: Serve
- Serve immediately while warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, be careful not to overwork the meatball mixture, which can make them tough. If you prefer a different poultry option, ground chicken works beautifully as a substitute for the turkey in this recipe.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use your favorite plant-based alternative. For an extra layer of flavor in your homemade sauce, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the marinara while it simmers.
Serviervorschläge
To turn these lettuce wraps into a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a portion of cauliflower rice or a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables. This keeps the meal gluten-free and low-carb while adding variety to your plate.
Pin Enjoy these flavorful, guilt-free turkey meatball wraps as a light dinner or a sophisticated lunch. With their perfect balance of savory meatballs and crisp greens, they are sure to become a regular in your healthy meal rotation.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance and store them uncooked in the refrigerator. Alternatively, bake them completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating gently in the marinara sauce before serving.
- → What lettuce works best for wraps?
Butter lettuce and romaine are both excellent choices. Butter lettuce offers a delicate, sweet flavor and cup-shaped leaves that hold ingredients beautifully. Romaine provides a satisfying crunch and sturdier structure for heartier portions.
- → Can I freeze the cooked meatballs?
Absolutely. Once cooled, place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in warm marinara sauce.
- → How do I prevent the meatballs from becoming dry?
Avoid overmixing the turkey mixture, which can make the meatballs tough. Using lean ground turkey with a bit of Parmesan and breadcrumbs helps maintain moisture. Baking rather than frying also keeps them juicy while developing a nice exterior.
- → What sides pair well with these lettuce wraps?
Cauliflower rice, roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complement the wraps beautifully. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted sweet potato wedges or a light Italian-inspired soup.