Why Make This Recipe
Turkey Sage Meatballs are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional meatballs. Made with ground turkey, fresh sage, and served over a bed of orzo and sautéed kale, they offer a perfect balance of flavors. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but is also a great way to sneak some greens into your meal. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Turkey Sage Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free or regular)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 3 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium shallot (finely sliced)
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
- 3 cups finely chopped kale
- 1 1/4 cups cooked orzo
- 1/4 cup orzo cooking water
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all of the ingredients for the meatballs: ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan, minced garlic, chopped sage, salt, and pepper.
- Scoop and roll the mixture into balls.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for about 18-22 minutes or until they are cooked through in the center.
- While the meatballs are baking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium/low heat.
- Add the sliced shallot and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the minced garlic and kale. Sauté until the kale is wilted, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cooked orzo, parmesan, and orzo cooking water to the skillet.
- Season with salt and pepper, mixing until the cheese melts and everything is combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve the meatballs over the orzo with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan on top.
How to Serve Turkey Sage Meatballs
Turkey Sage Meatballs are best served warm right out of the oven. Lay the sautéed kale and orzo on a plate and place the meatballs on top. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan for a delightful touch. Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal!
How to Store Turkey Sage Meatballs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. If you want to store them for a longer period, place the meatballs in a freezer-safe container and freeze them for up to three months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Tips to Make Turkey Sage Meatballs
- If you want to keep the meatballs juicy, avoid overmixing the ingredients.
- Use fresh sage for the best flavor, but dried sage can work in a pinch.
- You can substitute the orzo with other pasta, quinoa, or rice for different variations.
Variation
If you’re looking for a different twist, try adding chopped spinach or other herbs into the meatball mixture. You can also change the cheese to feta for a Mediterranean flavor.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey with chicken?
Yes, ground chicken can be used as an alternative to ground turkey.
What can I serve with Turkey Sage Meatballs?
These meatballs go well with a variety of sides, including pasta, rice, or a simple green salad.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
