Description
These Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs combine lean ground turkey with the sweet freshness of grated apple and aromatic sage, creating a moist and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy meal. Baked to golden perfection, they offer a delightful balance of savory and subtly sweet flavors with a tender texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 apple, peeled and grated
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the meatballs evenly and prevent sticking.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the ground turkey, grated apple, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped sage, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until all components are evenly incorporated for consistent flavor and texture.
- Shape meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and arrange them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet to ensure proper cooking and browning.
- Add olive oil: Drizzle olive oil over the arranged meatballs, which will help them develop a flavorful golden crust during baking.
- Bake meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), indicating they are safely cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Carefully remove the meatballs from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes to settle the juices, then serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use a food thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- If you prefer, substitute fresh sage with dried sage at a ratio of one-third the amount, but fresh provides better flavor.
- Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.
- Grated apple adds moisture and a subtle sweetness enhancing the turkey’s flavor.
- These meatballs can be paired with pasta, salad, or enjoyed on their own as a protein-rich snack.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
