Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Turkey Sage Meatballs with Orzo, Kale, and Parmesan Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 54 reviews

These Turkey Sage Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy dinner option that comes together quickly. The savory meatballs, infused with fresh sage and parmesan, are baked to perfection and served over a delicious mixture of sautéed kale, orzo, and nutty parmesan. A comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free or regular)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 3 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Serving

  • 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium shallot (finely sliced)
  • 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
  • 3 cups finely chopped kale
  • 1 1/4 cups cooked orzo
  • 1/4 cup orzo cooking water
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Meatball Mixture: Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, grated parmesan, minced garlic, finely chopped sage, salt, and black pepper, mixing until just combined.
  2. Shape and Bake Meatballs: Scoop the mixture and roll into evenly sized balls. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until they are cooked through at the center and golden on the outside.
  3. Sauté Shallots: While the meatballs bake, melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add finely sliced shallots and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
  4. Add Garlic and Kale: Add minced garlic to the skillet with the shallots, then stir in the finely chopped kale. Sauté everything together for 5-7 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
  5. Combine Orzo and Cheese: Stir in the cooked orzo, parmesan cheese, and about 1/4 cup of the reserved orzo cooking water to loosen the mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then mix until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve: Plate the cooked meatballs over the cheesy kale and orzo mixture. Garnish with a fresh sprinkle of grated parmesan on top and enjoy while warm.

Notes

  • For gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • You can substitute kale with spinach if preferred.
  • Be careful not to overmix the meatball ingredients to keep them tender.
  • Reserve some orzo cooking water to help create a creamy sauce for the orzo and kale.
  • To add more flavor, try incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes into the orzo mix.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Italian
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/turkey-sage-meatballs-with-orzo-kale-and-parmesan-recipe/