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Sage Turkey Meatballs with Pumpkin Orzo Recipe

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4 from 10 reviews

This comforting Sage Turkey Meatballs with Pumpkin Orzo recipe combines tender turkey meatballs seasoned with fresh sage and Parmesan, cooked to perfection in a skillet, and served atop a creamy, flavorful pumpkin orzo. The dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a delightful balance of savory herbs, pumpkin sweetness, and cheesy richness with a smooth, velvety texture from the heavy cream and pumpkin puree.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh sage
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • 1 lb. ground turkey (85% or 93% lean – avoid ground turkey breast)
  • 1 large egg, whisked
  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil for cooking

Orzo and Sauce

  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

Optional Garnish

  • Crispy fried sage leaves (see notes)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, finely chopped fresh sage, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning. Add the ground turkey and whisked egg to the bowl. Gently mix until just combined, taking care not to overwork or compact the meat mixture. Scoop and roll the mixture into 18 mini meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches each, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate to rest.
  2. Cook Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large sauté pan or high-sided skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully arrange the meatballs in the pan without overcrowding. Cook the meatballs for 8 to 10 minutes, turning them frequently to brown all sides evenly and ensure they are cooked through. Once done, transfer the meatballs to a clean plate and cover to keep warm.
  3. Prepare Orzo: Using the same pan, with the residual olive oil (add a little extra if needed), add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes soft and aromatic, about 6 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic during the final minute of cooking. Add the dry orzo pasta to the pan, stirring constantly to coat the grains in the hot oil. Toast the orzo for 1 to 2 minutes to enhance its flavor. Pour in the vegetable broth along with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, then increase the heat to bring the mixture to a low boil.
  4. Simmer Orzo: Once boiling, cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let the orzo gently simmer until al dente, about 13 to 15 minutes. Remove the lid and stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking uncovered, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 2 to 3 more minutes. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with additional salt as needed.
  5. Finish and Serve: Nestle the cooked turkey meatballs back into the skillet with the creamy pumpkin orzo. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper. Optionally, add crispy fried sage leaves on top for an added burst of sage flavor and a crunchy texture. Serve immediately and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish.

Notes

  • For the meatballs, avoid using ground turkey breast as it can be too lean and may result in dry meatballs; opt for 85% or 93% lean turkey instead.
  • Crispy fried sage leaves make an excellent garnish and add a lovely texture contrast; to make them, fry fresh sage leaves in hot oil until crisp, then drain on paper towels.
  • If you prefer, you can substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth for a richer flavor.
  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
  • Keep leftover meatballs covered in the skillet to retain moisture before serving.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/sage-turkey-meatballs-with-pumpkin-orzo-recipe/