There’s something magical about crisp, golden fritters sizzling in a pan. These Ground Turkey and Zucchini Fritters are the perfect balance of tender, juicy, and crispy. They bring together the mild, savory goodness of ground turkey with the freshness of zucchini, creating a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
These fritters are inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, where zucchini and lean meats often find their way into light yet satisfying meals. Whether you serve them as a protein-packed snack, a quick dinner, or meal-prepped lunch, they’re bound to be a hit. Plus, with a creamy, tangy dipping sauce to go with them, trust me—you’re going to love every bite.
Why You’ll Love Ground Turkey and Zucchini Fritters
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion.
Is this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Fritters recipe for you? Let’s see. Ground Turkey and Zucchini Fritters are…
- Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—the perfect texture combination.
- Packed with protein and veggies, making them a healthy yet satisfying choice.
- Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes!
- Perfect for meal prep, as they store and reheat beautifully.
- Served with a creamy, tangy dipping sauce that takes them to the next level.
Quick Tip: Want an even crispier finish? Cook them in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat for the best golden crust.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Ground Turkey and Zucchini Fritters
Here’s the magic of this recipe—it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, but the result is packed with flavor. Let’s break it down:
- Zucchini: Adds moisture, freshness, and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory turkey.
- Ground Turkey: A lean yet juicy protein that holds the fritters together beautifully.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: These bring depth and warmth to the flavor.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that make a big difference.
- Avocado Oil: Used for frying, giving the fritters a crispy golden crust.
For the Sauce:
- Avocado Oil Mayonnaise: Creamy and rich, this makes the base of the sauce.
- Maple Syrup (or Date Paste for Whole30): A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Yellow Mustard: Adds tang and a slight kick. (Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
How to Make Ground Turkey and Zucchini Fritters
Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of avocado oil. This ensures even cooking and gives your fritters that golden, crispy finish. Prepare the Zucchini: Shred the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. This step is crucial to prevent soggy fritters! Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, shredded zucchini, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix, or the fritters may become dense. Form the Fritters: Scoop a portion of the mixture and shape it into small patties. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Cook to Perfection: Place the fritters in the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan. Make the Sauce: While the fritters cook, mix together the mayonnaise, maple syrup (or date paste), and mustard in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fritters warm with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy them as is or pair them with a fresh salad or roasted veggies.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Serving Suggestions
These fritters pair wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:
- Fresh Salads: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Crusty Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast.
- Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted asparagus, carrots, or sweet potatoes make great complements.
- As a Standalone: Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and enjoy!
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Prep Ahead: Grate the zucchini and mix the ingredients the night before to save time.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
- Dietary Adjustments: Swap out turkey for ground chicken or plant-based alternatives.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
- Double the Batch: These fritters freeze well, so consider making extra and freezing for busy days.
Final Thoughts
There you have it Ground Turkey and Zucchini Fritters that are crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you enjoy them fresh off the skillet or as a quick grab-and-go meal, these fritters are bound to become a household favorite. So go ahead, give them a try, and let me know how you like them! Happy cooking!
Ground Turkey and Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini shredded
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- For the Sauce:
- ½ cup avocado oil mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or date paste for Whole30
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
Instructions
- Shred zucchini, sprinkle with salt, and let stand for 5 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture using a kitchen towel or paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix zucchini, ground turkey, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Form small, flat patties using about a heaping tablespoon of the mixture.
- Cook each fritter for about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining mixture, adding oil as needed.
- Prepare the sauce by combining mayo, maple syrup, and mustard in a small bowl. Stir well. Serve fritters with the sauce.
Notes
- These fritters are best when small and flat. Adjust the size to your preference.
- Use store-bought or homemade date paste to make the sauce Whole30-compliant.
