MY TINY TREAT - SMALL BATCH HEALTHY RECIPES

Hidden Veggie Meatballs

These hidden veggie meatballs are one of those recipes every parent needs in their back pocket. They’re soft, juicy, easy to make, and packed with protein and vegetables — without anyone at the table noticing. No weird textures, no green flecks giving it away, and no complicated steps. Perfect for pasta nights, lunchboxes, or freezer-friendly dinners, these meatballs are made with simple ingredients and tested to actually work the first time.

12/29/20251 min read

white concrete building during daytime
white concrete building during daytime
Ingredients

  • 1 lbs organic ground beef

  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs

  • 3–4 tbsp reduced-sodium beef broth

  • 1 large egg

  • ¼ cup finely shredded carrot

  • ¼ cup finely shredded zucchini

  • ¼ cup grated cheese

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • Pinch of salt & pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
    (or lightly grease a baking dish).

  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, broth, and egg.

  3. Add the shredded carrot, shredded zucchini, grated cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

  4. Gently mix until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

  5. Roll into small meatballs (about 1½ inches each) and place on the prepared baking sheet.

  6. Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, then transfer the cast iron to fry the meatballs and create those crispy edges (careful - the pan will be very hot!).

Estimated Nutritional Value

(Per 3 small meatballs — typical serving for a small child)

  • Calories: ~230 kcal

  • Protein: ~18–20 g

  • Fat: ~14 g

  • Iron: ~15–20% of daily needs

  • Calcium: ~10–12% of daily needs

  • Vitamin A: ~25–30% of daily needs (from carrot)

  • Vitamin C: ~10% of daily needs

  • Fiber: ~2 g

What This Covers for a Small Child (Ages 2–6)

A serving of these hidden veggie meatballs provides:

  • ✅ Nearly a full day’s protein needs

  • ✅ A meaningful serving of vegetables (without the struggle)

  • ✅ Iron support for growth and energy

  • ✅ Healthy fats for brain development

Pair these with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies to round out a complete meal.

Why Parents Love These Meatballs

  • Hidden vegetables = zero dinner battles

  • Soft texture that kids actually chew and enjoy

  • Freezer-friendly for quick meals

  • Minimal prep and simple ingredients

  • Tested, retested, and family-approved

If you’re trying to get more nutrients into your kids without turning dinner into a negotiation, these meatballs are a win.

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