Beef and Zucchini Meatballs Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender beef and zucchini meatballs gently simmered in a fragrant Whole30-compliant tomato and fresh basil sauce. This whole30-inspired beef (gluten free, dairy free) ready in about 45 minutes blends 85% lean ground beef, minced garlic cloves, finely chopped fresh basil leaves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Whole30 cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 pound 85% lean ground beef, 1 finely grated and squeezed dry medium zucchini, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves, 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt, and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Form the mixture into 18 evenly sized meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add 18 meatballs in batches if necessary, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but not cooked through. Remove meatballs and set aside.
  4. Step 4: In the same pan, add 1 finely chopped small onion and sauté for 4 minutes until translucent. Stir in 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes and 1 teaspoon dried oregano, bringing the sauce to a simmer.
  5. Step 5: Return the meatballs to the pan, cover, and simmer gently for 15 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Step 6: Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Beef and Zucchini Meatballs Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (15 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Beef and Zucchini Meatballs Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Beef and Zucchini Meatballs Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Beef and Zucchini Meatballs Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Beef and Zucchini Meatballs Simmered in Tomato Basil Sauce gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free, dairy free, whole30 based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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