Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to fill your kitchen with the heartwarming aroma of a classic dish that bridges the comfort of autumn flavors with a wholesome twist? 🍎🍂 Today we’re crafting something truly special — Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs! These tender bites combine the natural sweetness of apples, the earthy fragrance of sage, and the lean goodness of turkey into one unforgettable meal.

This recipe brings back the cozy memories of family dinners, where every bite carried the warmth of home and the care of tradition. Whether you’re serving them over creamy mashed potatoes, pairing them with roasted vegetables, or tucking them into a hearty sandwich, these meatballs promise comfort in every mouthful.

Not only are they flavorful and satisfying, but they’re also lighter than traditional beef or pork meatballs — making them a perfect choice for anyone looking for a healthy, nourishing option that doesn’t skimp on taste. The magic lies in the balance: juicy turkey, crisp grated apples, and a whisper of sage that wraps everything together beautifully.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and make this rustic, soul-warming dish together! 🍴💚

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Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
• 1 small apple, peeled and grated (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried sage)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

For the Sauce (optional but recommended):

• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 2 tbsp flour (or gluten-free substitute)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

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🥄 Step-by-Step Directions:

1️⃣ Prep the ingredients.
Grate the apple and finely chop the onion and sage. This combination is what gives the meatballs their juicy texture and fragrant depth.

2️⃣ Mix the meatballs.
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, grated apple, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, sage, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a spoon to gently mix — don’t overwork the meat, or it’ll become dense.

3️⃣ Shape into balls.
Form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs. You should get about 16–18 pieces. Place them on a tray or plate while you heat the oil.

4️⃣ Sear for flavor.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, turning them gently until all sides are golden brown (about 6–8 minutes total).

5️⃣ Simmer or bake.

• Option 1 (Stovetop): Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for another 10 minutes until cooked through.
• Option 2 (Oven): Transfer seared meatballs to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes.

6️⃣ Prepare the sauce (if using).
In the same skillet, melt butter (or olive oil) over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a light roux, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and apple cider until smooth. Add Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened slightly.

7️⃣ Combine and serve.
Add the cooked meatballs back into the sauce, letting them soak up all that delicious flavor for 2–3 minutes.

8️⃣ Plate and enjoy!
Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh sage or a drizzle of the sauce for that elegant, homey touch.

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🍏 Nutritional Information:

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4
⚡ Calories per serving: ~310

• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 14g (3g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Cholesterol: 110mg

These meatballs are rich in lean protein, light on fat, and brimming with the comforting taste of fall. The apples lend a touch of sweetness that keeps the turkey moist, while sage gives each bite an aromatic twist. Pair them with a crisp salad or roasted carrots for a wholesome dinner that feels like a warm hug. 🤗

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️