Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs have become my go-to for a cozy, comforting meal that feels special enough for guests but is easy enough for any night of the week. I first tried making them when I wanted a lighter twist on traditional holiday fare, and the combination of sweet apple and savory sage was an instant hit. The aroma that fills my kitchen when these are cooking – a mix of warm spices, fragrant sage, and that hint of sweetness from the apple – is absolutely divine. This Apple Sage Turkey Meatball Recipe is truly a game-changer for anyone looking to add some fall flavors to their meal rotation. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs
- So Flavorful: The perfect balance of sweet apple and aromatic sage creates a unique, savory taste.
- Healthy & Lean: Made with ground turkey, these are a lighter alternative to beef meatballs.
- Easy to Make: This Ground Turkey Apple Sage Meatballs recipe comes together quickly for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a main dish, appetizer, or part of a holiday spread.
- Comfort Food Classic: These Turkey Meatballs with Apple and Sage offer that warm, satisfying feeling.
- Kid-Friendly: The subtle sweetness makes them a hit with even picky eaters.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead and enjoy delicious leftovers.
- Fall Flavors: Captures the essence of the season beautifully.
Ingredients for Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs
Gathering these simple components is the first step towards making a truly memorable Apple Sage Turkey Meatball Recipe. I find that using good quality ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor.
- 1 lb ground turkey – I prefer a 93% lean blend for the best moisture and flavor.
- 1 large egg – This acts as a binder to hold everything together.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs – These give the meatballs a wonderful light texture.
- 1/2 cup grated apple – Honeycrisp or Gala work best for their sweetness and texture; be sure to squeeze out excess liquid!
- 1/4 cup finely diced shallots or yellow onion – Shallots offer a milder, sweeter onion flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a pungent aroma and taste.
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped – This is where the signature flavor comes from! Dried sage at 1 tsp can be used in a pinch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a touch of freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a little warmth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for getting that perfect golden-brown sear on your Ground Turkey Apple Sage Meatballs.
- Optional Glaze or Sauce – Cranberry sauce, maple mustard glaze (2 tbsp maple syrup + 1 tbsp Dijon mustard), or classic gravy are all fantastic choices.
How to Make Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs
Let’s dive into making these delicious Turkey Meatballs with Apple and Sage! It’s a straightforward process that guarantees fantastic flavor and a wonderful aroma. Don’t worry if you’re new to making meatballs; these steps are easy to follow, and the results are always rewarding.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare IngredientsFirst, you’ll want to grate your apple. I like to use a box grater for this. Once grated, it’s super important to squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible using a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel. This prevents our meatballs from becoming too wet and falling apart.
- Step 2: Mix the Meatball MixtureIn a large bowl, combine one pound of ground turkey, one egg, a half cup of panko breadcrumbs, your grated apple, finely diced shallots (or onion), minced garlic, fresh sage, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. I find using my hands is the best way to gently mix everything until it’s *just* combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so be gentle!
- Step 3: Shape MeatballsNow it’s time to shape these beauties! Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into about 18 to 20 uniform, 1.5-inch meatballs. This recipe is great for making a batch of Homemade Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs that are perfect for sharing.
- Step 4: Brown the MeatballsHeat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the shaped meatballs into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan – you might need to do this in batches. Sear them on all sides until they’re beautifully golden brown, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes total. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor and color.
- Step 5: Finish CookingOnce browned, you have two great options to finish cooking your Sage and Apple Ground Turkey Meatballs. You can transfer them to a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, you can reduce the skillet heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let them cook gently for another 8 to 10 minutes.
- Step 6: ServeYour delicious Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs are ready! Serve them warm, drizzled with your favorite sauce. A classic cranberry sauce, a tangy maple mustard glaze, or even a rich, savory gravy are all fantastic pairings that complement the flavors perfectly.
Pro Tips for the Best Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs
To make sure your meatballs are absolutely perfect every time, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. These simple tips elevate your Turkey Meatball Recipe with Fall Flavors from good to unforgettable.
- Always use fresh, never frozen, ground turkey. The 93% lean variety provides the best balance of flavor and moisture.
- Don’t skip squeezing the liquid from the grated apple! This is crucial for preventing soggy meatballs.
- Gently mixing the meatball ingredients is key – overworking the mixture can result in tough meatballs.
- Letting the mixture rest for 5-10 minutes before shaping allows the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture, improving texture.
What’s the secret to perfect Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs?
The secret lies in the fresh ingredients and gentle handling. Using fresh sage and finely grated apple that’s been squeezed dry, combined with a light touch when mixing and shaping, ensures tender, flavorful Ground Turkey Meatballs with Herbs.
Can I make Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. You can also cook the meatballs completely, let them cool, and then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs?
The most common mistakes are using too-lean turkey, which dries them out, and overmixing the batter, which makes them tough. Also, ensure you squeeze the apple dry to prevent sogginess and ensure they hold their shape.
Best Ways to Serve Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs
These delightful Turkey Meatballs with Apple and Sage are incredibly versatile. For a comforting main course, I love serving them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or a simple risotto, letting the savory juices mingle with the starch. They also make fantastic Apple Sage Turkey Meatball Appetizers when served with a side of cranberry sauce or my homemade maple mustard glaze. Imagine them as the star of your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving table, perhaps alongside roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potato casserole. The combination of fall flavors makes them a perfect fit for any holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner. For more easy dinner ideas, check out these easy family dinners.
Nutrition Facts for Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs
When enjoying these delicious Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. This breakdown gives you a good idea of the nutritional profile per serving, helping you fit them into your meal planning.
- Serving Size: 1 meatball
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on healthy eating, consider these 3 foods you should eat less of to stay healthy.
How to Store and Reheat Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs
Properly storing and reheating your Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs ensures they stay delicious for your next meal. Once cooked, allow the meatballs to cool completely on a wire rack. This is a crucial step to prevent condensation and maintain their texture. For refrigeration, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve made a larger batch and want to keep them longer, freezing is your best bet. You can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, you can gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat with a little of your favorite sauce, or pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This makes enjoying these Turkey Meatballs with Apple and Sage convenient any time!
Variations of Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs You Can Try
Looking to switch things up? These Apple Sage Turkey Meatball Recipe variations offer exciting new takes on the classic. You can easily adapt them to fit your dietary needs or simply to explore new flavor profiles. They’re all fantastic ways to enjoy these savory delights!
- Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs or even almond flour for a grain-free version of these Ground Turkey Apple Sage Meatballs.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a bit of heat that wonderfully complements the sweetness of the apple.
- Baked Perfection: Instead of pan-searing, mix all ingredients and shape the meatballs, then bake them on a parchment-lined sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes until cooked through. These Baked Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs are just as delicious!
- Asian Fusion Twist: Incorporate a tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari and a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger into the mix. Serve with a sweet chili sauce for an unexpected flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs
What are Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs?
Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, featuring lean ground turkey blended with fresh sage and sweet grated apple. This combination creates a savory yet slightly sweet flavor profile that’s perfect for fall or holiday meals. They offer a lighter, more flavorful alternative to classic beef meatballs.
Why use apple and sage in turkey meatballs?
The apple adds a subtle sweetness and moisture, which is fantastic for ground turkey, as it can sometimes be a bit lean. Sage, a classic herb often paired with poultry and fall flavors, provides a warm, earthy, and aromatic counterpoint to the apple’s sweetness. Together, they create a harmonious and delicious taste in this Apple Sage Turkey Meatball Recipe.
Can I make Homemade Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the meatball mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking. Alternatively, you can cook the meatballs completely, let them cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
What are the best serving suggestions for Turkey Meatballs with Apple and Sage?
These Turkey Meatballs with Apple and Sage are incredibly versatile. They make a wonderful main course served over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, or as a festive appetizer. They are also a fantastic addition to holiday spreads, especially alongside traditional Thanksgiving dishes. Don’t forget a side of cranberry sauce or a simple gravy to tie it all together! For more appetizer ideas, explore these latest recipes.
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Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs: 1 Amazing Fall Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings (18-20 meatballs) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cozy up with these irresistible Apple Sage Turkey Meatballs, a delicious twist on traditional holiday fare. Lean ground turkey is blended with savory herbs and sweet apple for a memorable dish perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or a wholesome weeknight dinner. These meatballs offer a lighter take on classic turkey, are comforting, and can be served as a main course or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated apple (Honeycrisp or Gala recommended)
- 1/4 cup finely diced shallots or yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning)
- Optional Glaze or Sauce: Cranberry sauce, Maple mustard glaze (2 tbsp maple syrup + 1 tbsp Dijon mustard), or Classic gravy
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Grate the apple and squeeze out excess liquid using a paper towel to avoid soggy meatballs.
- Mix the Meatball Mixture: Combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, grated apple, shallots, garlic, sage, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Shape Meatballs: Use your hands or a small scoop to form 1.5-inch meatballs. This recipe yields about 18–20 apple sage turkey meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the apple sage turkey meatballs on all sides until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes total.
- Finish Cooking: Option 1: Transfer meatballs to a 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Option 2: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and cook for another 8–10 minutes.
- Serve: Drizzle with your chosen glaze or sauce, such as cranberry sauce, maple mustard glaze, or classic gravy.
Notes
- Use 93% lean ground turkey for the juiciest results; leaner options can lead to dry meatballs.
- Always squeeze excess moisture from the grated apple before mixing to prevent soggy meatballs.
- Allow the meatball mixture to rest for 5–10 minutes before shaping to help breadcrumbs absorb moisture.
- Mix the ingredients gently to keep the apple sage turkey meatballs tender.
- Freeze extra batches of cooked or uncooked meatballs for convenient weeknight meals or meal prep.
- For gluten-free apple sage turkey meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared & Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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