Healthy BBQ Meatball Bowls With Avocado Sauce: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Favorite

There’s something undeniably comforting about a good meatball, and this Healthy BBQ Meatball Bowl with Avocado Sauce takes it to a wholesome level. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe offers a balanced meal packed with flavor.

Why make this recipe

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Using ground turkey or chicken makes it leaner than traditional meatball recipes, and the addition of avocado sauce adds a creamy, healthy twist. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for any day.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey or chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 avocado
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Cooked brown rice or quinoa for serving

How to make it

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, make the avocado sauce by blending avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
6. Serve meatballs over cooked brown rice or quinoa, drizzled with remaining BBQ sauce and avocado goddess sauce.

How to serve it

This dish comes together beautifully in a bowl. Place a generous scoop of cooked brown rice or quinoa as the base, add your flavorful meatballs on top, and finish it off with a drizzle of BBQ sauce and the creamy avocado sauce. It’s a vibrant and satisfying meal.

How to store it

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the meatballs in the oven or microwave before serving again. The avocado sauce is best enjoyed fresh, so it’s advisable to make it just before serving.

Helpful tips

• Make the meatballs uniform in size for even cooking.
• If you find the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
• If you like a bit of spice, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce into the meatball mixture.

Optional variations

• Swap the ground turkey or chicken for lean beef or plant-based meat for a different flavor.
• Add some chopped vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to the meatball mixture for added nutrients.
• Instead of brown rice or quinoa, try serving over a bed of leafy greens for a lighter option.

Frequently asked questions

Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
If you prefer, you can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative to keep the avocado sauce creamy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and avocado sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and simply combine and heat when ready to serve.

Print