Creamy Skillet Meatballs with Herb Rice & Roasted Vegetables (Anti-Inflammatory Comfort Food)
Description
These Creamy Skillet Meatballs with Herb Rice & Roasted Vegetables are the perfect balance of comfort food and clean eating. Juicy, golden-seared meatballs are simmered in a rich, dairy-optional creamy sauce made with anti-inflammatory ingredients like olive oil, garlic, turmeric, and fresh herbs. Served alongside fluffy herb-infused rice and colorful oven-roasted vegetables, this meal is nourishing, satisfying, and ideal for anyone following an anti-inflammatory diet, Mediterranean lifestyle, or healthy meal prep routine.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or make-ahead lunches.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
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1 lb ground turkey or grass-fed beef
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1 large egg
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½ cup almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp turmeric
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp sea salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
For the Creamy Skillet Sauce
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1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1 tbsp ghee or avocado oil
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1 cup unsweetened coconut milk or cashew cream
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½ cup low-sodium bone broth or vegetable broth
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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½ tsp dried thyme
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1 tsp lemon juice
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Salt & pepper to taste
For the Herb Rice
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1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
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2 cups water or broth
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
For the Roasted Vegetables
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1 zucchini, sliced
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
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1 cup cubed butternut squash
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1 tbsp olive oil
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Roast the Vegetables
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Toss vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until caramelized and tender.
2. Prepare the Meatballs
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In a bowl, mix all meatball ingredients until just combined.
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Roll into evenly sized balls (about 1½ inches).
3. Cook the Meatballs
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Heat olive oil and ghee in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Sear meatballs for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
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Remove and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
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In the same skillet, lower heat and add coconut milk and broth.
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Stir in Dijon mustard, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Simmer
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Return meatballs to the skillet.
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Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, until fully cooked and coated in sauce.
6. Cook the Herb Rice
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Cook rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
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Fluff with olive oil and fresh herbs before serving.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve meatballs over herb rice with roasted vegetables on the side
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Garnish with extra parsley or fresh thyme
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Pair with a simple cucumber salad or lemony arugula greens
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Ideal for meal prep containers or family-style plating
Variations & Substitutions
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Dairy-Free & Paleo: Use coconut milk and almond flour
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Low-Carb/Keto: Swap rice for cauliflower rice
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Vegan Option: Use lentil or chickpea meatballs
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Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or harissa
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Mediterranean Style: Add olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce
Nutrition Information (Approx. Per Serving)
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Calories: 520
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Protein: 32g
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Healthy Fats: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 35g
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Fiber: 6g
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Sugar: 5g
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Gluten-Free | Anti-Inflammatory | High-Protein
(Values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these meatballs good for inflammation?
Yes. Ingredients like turmeric, olive oil, garlic, and herbs are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavors deepen overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.
What protein works best?
Ground turkey is lean and anti-inflammatory, while grass-fed beef offers more iron and omega-3s.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes—freeze meatballs and sauce separately for best texture.
Final Thoughts
These Creamy Skillet Meatballs with Herb Rice & Roasted Vegetables prove that healthy anti-inflammatory meals don’t have to be boring. This dish is rich, comforting, nutrient-dense, and perfect for anyone looking to reduce inflammation while still enjoying restaurant-quality flavor at home. Whether you’re cooking for wellness, weight management, or pure comfort, this recipe delivers every time.
