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Delicious Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs
As the fall season approaches, there’s no better way to welcome the cozy vibes than with a warm plate of Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs. These flavorful meatballs are a perfect blend of savory turkey, sweet apples, and aromatic sage, making them an ideal dish for cool autumn evenings. With a preparation time of 20 minutes, a cook time of 30 minutes, and a total time of 50 minutes, this recipe serves 4 and is of moderate difficulty.
Ingredients
To make these delectable Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium apple, grated
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated apple, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, sage, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Shape the mixture into meatballs of uniform size and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes until they are cooked through and golden brown.
6. Serve the Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs hot with your favorite side dishes.
Recipe Variations
For a twist on the classic recipe, consider these variations:
1. Substitute ground chicken for turkey for a lighter option.
2. Add a touch of maple syrup to the meatball mixture for a hint of sweetness.
3. Mix in chopped walnuts for added crunch and texture.
Expert Tips & Tricks
1. Use a gentle hand when mixing the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.
2. For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the mixture.
3. Chill the meatball mixture for 30 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle.
4. To test for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the center of a meatball – it should read 165°F (74°C).
5. Make a double batch and freeze the uncooked meatballs for a quick meal option later.
Storage & Make-ahead Instructions
If you have leftovers, store the cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To make ahead, prepare the meatball mixture and shape them into balls, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Nutritional Information/Benefits
These Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs are a nutritious choice, providing lean protein from the turkey, fiber from the apples, and a dose of antioxidants from the sage. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair these flavorful meatballs with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. They also make a great addition to pasta dishes or sandwiches.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?
2. Are these meatballs suitable for freezing?
3. What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
4. How can I make the meatballs gluten-free?
5. Can I bake the meatballs in an air fryer?
6. How long do the uncooked meatballs last in the freezer?
Conclusion
These Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs are a delightful fall-inspired dish that will surely become a favorite at your dinner table. With their unique blend of flavors and simple preparation, they are perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Try this recipe today and savor the taste of autumn!
If you enjoyed making these meatballs, don’t forget to share your creation on Pinterest and spread the deliciousness with your friends and family!
Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs – Perfect for Fall
Celebrate the fall season with these delicious Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs, a perfect blend of savory turkey, sweet apples, and aromatic sage. These meatballs are easy to make and ideal for cozy autumn evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium apple, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated apple, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs of uniform size and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes until they are cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve the Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs hot with your favorite side dishes.
