Sage Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Orzo (Print out)

Sage turkey meatballs paired with creamy pumpkin orzo for a warm, savory fall dinner.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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, to taste
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Pumpkin Orzo

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

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, sage, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper gently until just combined.
02 - Form mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs, yielding about 16 pieces.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown evenly on all sides for 4 to 5 minutes. 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 until combined.
06 - Add orzo pasta, bring mixture to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
07 - Return browned meatballs to skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 7 to 8 minutes, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.
08 - Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
09 - Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra sage or Parmesan cheese.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Comforting and hearty
  • Perfect for fall meals
02 -
  • Use fresh sage for best flavor
  • Meatballs can be frozen separately for up to 2 months
03 -
  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender
  • Brown meatballs well to develop flavor
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