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Meatballs with Roasted Vegetables & Rice

A delightful dish that combines tender meatballs, vibrant roasted vegetables, and fluffy rice for a comforting meal.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: comfort food, Family Dinner, Meatballs, Rice, Roasted Vegetables
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 480kcal

Ingredients

For the meatballs

  • 1/2 lb ground turkey or chicken Lean and flavorful, providing excellent protein.
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs For binding and adding texture.
  • 1 piece egg Helps the meatballs hold their shape.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Adds aromatic warmth to the meat.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a slight kick.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning Offers a blend of herbs that elevates the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking) Adds richness.

For the roasted vegetables

  • 1 small sweet potato, cubed Provides a hearty texture.
  • 1 piece zucchini, sliced into half-moons Mild and tender.
  • 1/2 piece red bell pepper, diced Crunchy and colorful.
  • 1/2 piece onion, chopped Savory base.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For roasting.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Intensifies garlic flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds depth and smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt For seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Brings the dish together.

For the rice

  • 1 cup white or brown rice Base carbohydrate.
  • 2 cups water Necessary for cooking the rice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt For flavoring the rice.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

  • In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.
  • Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.

Roast the Vegetables

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a large bowl, toss together the sweet potatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Cook the Rice

  • Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear.
  • In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to a boil.
  • Once boiling, add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, until tender.

Assemble & Serve

  • In serving bowls, divide the cooked rice into portions.
  • Top each bowl with roasted vegetables and meatballs.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to customize vegetables based on what you have. This dish can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.