Moroccan Spiral Meatball Zucchini Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Moroccan Spiral Meatball Zucchini Bake is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines spiced meatballs with tender zucchini and rich tomato sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground meat (beef, lamb, or a mix)
• 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into spirals or thin rounds
• 1 tablespoon Moroccan spice blend (such as cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon)
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine the ground meat with the Moroccan spices, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Step 2: In a baking dish, spread half of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the meatballs evenly over the sauce. Next, place the zucchini spirals or slices in between and around the meatballs, creating a visually appealing pattern.
3. Step 3: Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the entire dish, ensuring meatballs and zucchini are well coated. Cover the baking dish with foil.
4. Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the zucchini is tender. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly.
5. Step 5: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with couscous or crusty bread on the side.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of ground beef and lamb for a richer flavor.
• Add minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the meat mixture for extra aroma.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute meatballs with spiced falafel balls or chickpea patties.
• If slicing zucchinis is difficult, use a spiralizer or a mandoline for even pieces.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Yes, you can substitute zucchini with eggplant or summer squash for a similar texture and taste.

How can I tell if the meatballs are fully cooked?

Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and are no longer pink inside. Baking for 35–40 minutes usually guarantees they are cooked through.

Moroccan Spiral Meatball Zucchini Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

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This Moroccan Spiral Meatball Zucchini Bake is a flavorful and hearty dish featuring spiced ground meat meatballs arranged with fresh zucchini slices and baked together in a rich tomato sauce. Infused with traditional Moroccan spices, this recipe offers a delicious blend of savory and aromatic tastes perfect for a wholesome family meal.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Moroccan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatballs

• 1 lb ground meat (beef or lamb)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs

Vegetables & Sauce

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced thinly
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, minced garlic, egg, and bread crumbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Form the meatballs: Shape the seasoned ground meat into small, evenly-sized meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, to ensure even cooking.
3. Arrange in a baking dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce, then arrange the meatballs spirally, alternating with sliced zucchini pieces to create a visually appealing pattern.
4. Add remaining sauce and olive oil: Pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the arranged meatballs and zucchini. Drizzle with olive oil for added moisture and flavor.
5. Bake the dish: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and zucchini is tender.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve hot as a main course alongside your favorite side dish or bread.

Notes

• Use ground beef or lamb for authenticity and rich flavor; turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference, especially with cayenne pepper.
• For gluten-free option, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or omit entirely.
• Let the bake rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
• The spiral arrangement of meatballs and zucchini not only looks beautiful but ensures even baking and flavor melding.

Keywords: Moroccan meatballs, zucchini bake, baked meatballs, tomato sauce, spiced meatballs, healthy bake