Name: Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 small apple, peeled and grated; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking

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Introduction

These Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The sweet apple and earthy sage complement the lean turkey perfectly, creating a juicy and flavorful bite. They’re easy to make and perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.

The image shows a close-up of several golden-brown meatballs with cooked herbs mixed inside, piled together on a white bowl. Each meatball has a crispy outside with a slightly charred texture and small green herb bits visible throughout. The meatballs sit in a pool of clear yellow oil, giving a shiny surface on the bottom. There are a few fresh green sage leaves scattered on and around the meatballs, adding a fresh touch. The background has a white marbled texture, enhancing the focus on the warm colors of the meatballs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 small apple, peeled and grated
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated apple, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped sage, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Step 4: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the meatballs and sear them on all sides until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or apple sauce to the mixture.
Swap fresh sage for dried sage by using one-third of the amount called for.
Serve with a simple marinara sauce or over creamy polenta for a comforting meal.
Use ground chicken instead of turkey for a slightly different flavor.

Storage

Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. They also freeze well—place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl is filled with a pile of golden-brown meatballs that have a slightly crispy texture on the outside with bits of green herbs mixed through. The meatballs are coated with some olive oil, giving them a shiny look. Around and under the meatballs, several fresh, textured green leaves are placed, adding a fresh contrast to the warm colors of the meatballs. Some white salt flakes are sprinkled on top of the meatballs, highlighting their crispy surface. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs without searing them first?

Yes, searing adds extra flavor and a nice crust, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time. Just bake the shaped meatballs directly for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Their mild sweetness also complements creamy or tangy sauces like tzatziki or mustard-based dressings.