Sage Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin (Printable)

Savory turkey meatballs with sage, simmered alongside creamy pumpkin orzo for warm comfort.

# Ingredient List:

→ Turkey Meatballs

01 - 1 lb ground turkey
02 - 2 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Pumpkin Orzo

07 - 2 tbsp olive oil
08 - 1 small onion, diced
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1 cup pumpkin puree
11 - 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
12 - 1 cup orzo pasta
13 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, chopped sage, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until just combined.
02 - Form the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs, yielding about 16 pieces.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides for 4 to 5 minutes; remove and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
05 - Add pumpkin puree and broth to the skillet, stirring to combine.
06 - Stir in orzo pasta and bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, until orzo is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed, about 8 to 10 minutes.
07 - Return browned meatballs to the skillet. Cover and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, or until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
08 - Remove from heat; stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
09 - Serve warm, garnished with additional sage or Parmesan as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-pot meal
  • Comforting fall flavors
02 -
  • For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour and use gluten-free orzo or small pasta
  • Freeze cooked meatballs separately for up to 2 months; reheat gently and serve with fresh orzo
03 -
  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender
  • Brown meatballs well for extra flavor before simmering
Go Back