This Moroccan Meatball Skillet is easy to throw together in 15 minutes making it the perfect weeknight meal. It can be served over rice, with pasta, with potatoes or even on a sandwich! All you need is Ras el Hanout Spice Blend, tomato sauce, feta, green onions and chicken meatballs!
You can save time making this Moroccan Meatball Skillet recipe by buying premade gluten free meatballs. For the dairy free recipe use vegan feta. For the low fat recipe use fat free feta. This recipe is fully gluten free and dairy free.
why you’ll love this recipe
- Save time: Save time by buying premade meatballs!
- Minimal ingredients: You only need 11 ingredients, most of which are pantry staples.
- Pre-made components: The use of seasoned breadcrumbs and prepared tomato sauce cuts down on prep time.
- Quick cooking: The meatballs cook in under 15 minutes, and the entire dish comes together in 30 minutes or less.
- No need for multiple pots and pans: The whole Moroccan Meatball Skillet recipe cooks in the same skillet, minimizing cleanup.
- Less mess, more time: You’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your delicious meal.
- Quick and easy: Perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a healthy and flavorful meal.
- Easy to customize: Adjust the spice level to your liking and add extra vegetables for a more filling dish.
- Meal prep friendly: Cook a double batch and store leftovers for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
- Gluten-free: The use of gluten-free breadcrumbs and the absence of gluten-containing ingredients make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Fat-free and dairy-free options: Opt for fat-free or dairy-free feta cheese and olive oil-based parmesan cheese to make this dish completely fat-free and dairy-free.
ingredients & substitutions
Ground Chicken:
This lean protein forms the base of the Moroccan Meatball Skillet. It cooks quickly and absorbs the Moroccan spice blend beautifully. For a vegetarian option, substitute cooked lentils or black beans. You can also use ground beef or ground pork depending on your preference.
Oat Milk:
This neutral-flavored milk adds moisture and helps bind the Moroccan Meatballs without adding dairy. Make sure the oat milk you are using is gluten free as well.
Egg:
The egg acts as a binder, holding the meatball ingredients together and ensuring they stay moist during cooking. For an egg-free option, use 2 tbsp of mashed avocado or 1/4 cup of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp of water and let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
Gluten-Free Seasoned Breadcrumbs:
These add texture and body to the Moroccan Meatballs. Choose a brand that uses gluten-free grains like rice, quinoa, or oats. For a grain-free option, use crushed pork rinds.
Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese:
This adds a touch of salty flavor. Look for brands made with cashews, nutritional yeast, or soy.
Ras el Hanout Spice Blend:
This warm, complex blend of spices is the heart and soul of the dish. It features cinnamon, ginger, cloves, turmeric, cardamom, and other spices that evoke the flavors of Morocco. You can adjust the amount to your spice preference. If you don’t have Ras el Hanout, you can make your own by combining equal parts of ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, turmeric, and cardamom for this Moroccan Meatball Skillet.
Tomato Sauce:
Use your favorite brand of tomato sauce (canned) or make your own with chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Use a tomato sauce that does not have added spices since you will be adding your own spics. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to this Moroccan Meatball Skillet.
Crumbled Feta:
This creamy cheese adds a salty and tangy contrast to the savory meatballs. Use fat-free or dairy-free feta to accommodate dietary restrictions. Alternatively, substitute crumbled low fat ricotta cheese or fat free feta cheese for a low fat option. Use vegan feta cheese for a dairy free Moroccan Meatball Skillet.
Green Onions:
These fresh herbs add a bright flavor and a pop of color to the finished dish. You can also use chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
taste & texture
The meatballs are tender and juicy, with a mild spice from the Ras el Hanout. The tomato sauce is tangy and slightly sweet, with a hint of smokiness. The feta cheese adds a creamy texture and salty flavor, while the green onions provide a fresh, oniony bite. The overall flavor of this Moroccan Meatball Skillet is savory and warming, with a balance of spices and acidity.
directions
Step 1
Add all the ingredients for the meatballs into a bowl. Mix together and form meatballs with your hands.
Step 2
Add the meatballs to a skillet or oven safe frying pan.
Step 3
Bake on 350 for 35-45 minutes or until fully cooked. May be longer depending on the size of the meatballs.
Step 4
In a small skillet, add the tomato sauce and Ras El Hanout Spice Blend. Mix together.
Step 5
Sprinkle with feta cheese, garlic sauce and green onions.
expert tips & tricks
- Chill the meatballs before cooking: This helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart.
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Just combine the ingredients until barely incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs in batches: This ensures even browning and prevents overcrowding the pan.
- Don’t overcook the meatballs: They are done when they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking: Start with a smaller amount of Ras el Hanout and add more to taste.
- Use ripe tomatoes for the sauce: This will result in a richer and more flavorful sauce.
- Serve the skillet immediately: This allows the flavors to meld and the meatballs to stay moist.
- Get creative with garnishes: Try adding chopped fresh cilantro, chopped parsley, or a drizzle of lemon juice.
- Make it ahead of time: The meatballs and sauce can be made ahead of time and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
how to make this Moroccan Meatball Skillet lower carb
Omit the breadcrumbs: Replace them with 1/4 cup of crushed pork rinds for gluten-free and low-carb options!
Serve with low-carb sides: Opt for cauliflower rice, brown rice, roasted vegetables, or zoodles instead of couscous or rice.
how to make this low fat or healthier
Use lean ground chicken: Choose ground chicken with 99% fat-free content.
Use fat-free or low-fat dairy products: Opt for fat-free or low-fat feta cheese, and use olive oil-based parmesan cheese.
Reduce the oil: Use only 1 tablespoon of oil to cook the meatballs and vegetables.
how to make this Moroccan Meatball Skillet vegan
Substitute the ground chicken: Use cooked lentils, black beans, or textured vegetable protein for a vegan protein base.
Use vegan parmesan cheese: Look for brands made with cashews, nutritional yeast, or soy.
Omit the feta cheese: Alternatively, use crumbled tofu or a vegan feta cheese alternative.
how to serve, store and meal prep
Serving:
This Moroccan Meatball Skillet is a complete meal on its own. Serve it with a side of couscous, rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt, garlic sauce or sour cream for extra richness. For a lighter option, serve the meatballs over a bed of lettuce or spinach.
Refrigerator Storage:
Leftovers of the Moroccan Meatball Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To store the meatballs and sauce separately, place them in separate airtight containers.
Freezer Storage:
This Moroccan Meatball Skillet is freezer-friendly. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container or individual freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
Thaw frozen Moroccan Meatball Skillet overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Meal Prep:
This Moroccan Meatball Skillet is perfect for meal prepping. Cook the meatballs and sauce in advance and portion them out into individual containers. You can then grab a container and reheat it for a quick and easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
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Moroccan Meatball Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients for the skillet:
- 1-2 tbsp Ras El Hanout Spice Blend
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp feta fat free or dairy free
- 2 tbsp green onions
- 10-12 gluten free chicken meatballs
Meatball ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 3 tbsp oat milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs gluten free
- 1 tbsp dairy free parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Ras El Hanout Spice Blend
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients for the meatballs into a bowl. Mix together and form mini meatballs with your hands.
- Add the meatballs to a skillet or oven safe frying pan.
- Bake on 350 for 35-45 minutes or until fully cooked. May be longer depending on the size of the meatballs.
- In a small skillet, add the tomato sauce and Ras El Hanout Spice Blend. Mix together.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese and green onions.
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