Sage Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Orzo (Printable Version)

Tender turkey meatballs with fresh sage simmered alongside creamy pumpkin orzo for a cozy dinner.

# Components:

→ 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

# Method Steps:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Cozy fall dinner
  • Combines savory and creamy 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 to develop deeper flavor before simmering
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