This protein-packed Vegetarian Meatball Recipe is full of flavor! The whole family will love this filling plant-based dinner, made with plant-based products and zucchini noodles.

plant-based meatballs

I always try to make things a little lighter for dinnertime with the family. Plant-based products are a great way to enjoy traditional recipes with extra protein and/or veggies!

INGREDIENTS NEEDED TO MAKE THIS VEGETARIAN MEATBALL RECIPE:

• 1 lb, plant-based ground “beef”
• “flax egg”: 1 T flax + 3 T water
• ½ cup, breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoon plant-based milk, such as oat milk
• 1 Tbsp, dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 20 oz “zoodles” (zucchini noodles)
• 1- 28 oz jar, vegan pasta sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Optional: chopped, fresh parsley for topping

HOW TO MAKE THIS VEGETARIAN MEATBALL RECIPE:

1. If needed, drain zoodles in colander in sink, using spatula to gently press out excess water*
2. Meanwhile, combine first 7 ingredients in large bowl, and form into about 12 meatballs.
3. Place 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet.
4. Heat oil over medium heat for 2 minutes. 
5. Add ground meat alternative to skillet and gently stir to lightly coat with the oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the product reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, as measured by a meat thermometer, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Add zucchini to separate skillet, and heat through, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add sauce to meatball skillet, stirring to coat meatballs.
8. Serve meatballs and sauce atop zoodles. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy!

*Zoodles should be moist but not dripping in liquid.

You cook meat products the same as plant-based products, you can put it in a pan, throw it on a grill, or cook it on a campfire—if you feel compelled! Just make sure that you follow the step to coat it in oil when you add it to the pan so it doesn’t stick. 

Making the ground alternative into meatballs is a great way to mix other flavors in. I like Italian seasoning, but dried parsley, basil, or oregano will also do. Crushed or pureed tomatoes add to the authentic Italian flavor.

I love to sub zoodles for pasta for extra nutrients. It’s a great way to get more veggies into family dinner. This is a filling, meatless meal for families who love flavorful classics with a twist!

handy tools to easily make vegetarian meatballs:

• skillet – nonstick, easy clean
• spiralizer – makes perfect noodles for pasta, salads, and more

Frequently Asked Questions

What are vegetarian meatballs made of? Mostly plant-based meat is made from soy.

Are meatless meatballs healthy? Plant-based meat substitute are not considered a health food. If you need to avoid red meats they are a good alternative for that, but do not provide more nutrition than the meat they are substituting for.

Where can I buy vegetarian meatballs? If you want premade meatballs you can grab them at mostly any grocery store in the frozen aisle.

Did your family go crazy over these zoodles and Vegetarian Meatballs like mine? Try these Zucchini Chips for a great snack alternative!

Bookmark my Recipe Index for other easy, delicious recipes your family will love!