Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs Recipe

The magic of fall is best captured in the kitchen, and nothing embodies cozy, savory flavors quite like these Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs. Sweet grated apple melts seamlessly into tender turkey, while fresh sage and a hit of warm spices make each bite impossibly aromatic. This is one of those dinners that feels special enough for guests, but is secretly so simple you’ll want to make it all season long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients, these meatballs strike the perfect balance between comforting and fresh. Each component brings its own special touch, from the savory backbone of turkey to the bright lift of apple. Here’s what you’ll need and why each matters:

• Ground turkey: Lean but juicy ground turkey forms the perfect neutral canvas for the bold flavors in these meatballs.
• Apple (peeled and grated): The apple adds subtle sweetness and moisture, keeping the meatballs tender and giving them a signature fall twist.
• Egg (beaten): This helps bind everything together for the perfect bite that holds its shape.
• Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the mixture with an irresistible dash of warmth and depth.
• Almond flour: Almond flour binds without weighing down the texture, keeping the meatballs gluten-free and wonderfully light.
• Fresh sage: Sage is the flavor heart of these meatballs, lending an earthy, aromatic note that marries beautifully with apple.
• White ground pepper: This adds subtle heat and complexity, elevating the savory elements.
• Onion powder: Deliciously rounds out the flavor, providing classic meatball savoriness with no chopping required.
• Fine sea salt: A pinch is all you need to wake up and balance all the flavors.
• Allspice: Just a pinch introduces a gentle warmth that’s unmistakably autumnal.
• Avocado oil: Perfect for browning the meatballs—it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor.

How to Make Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

First things first, set your oven to 375ºF and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This little bit of prep guarantees easy cleanup later and keeps the meatballs from sticking (and losing their precious crispy bottoms).

Step 2: Mix Together the Meatball Ingredients

In your largest mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, grated apple, beaten egg, garlic, almond flour, sage, white pepper, onion powder, sea salt, and allspice. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon, mixing just until all the ingredients are evenly combined. Try not to overmix—this keeps the Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs light and tender.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Divide the mixture and gently shape it into about 12 meatballs, roughly the size of golf balls. Arrange them on a plate or tray as you work—they’ll be ready for their golden crisp in the skillet next.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium-high and drizzle in the avocado oil. Once it shimmers, add the meatballs—be careful not to crowd the pan, as you want an even, golden crust on all sides. Brown them for about 2 minutes per side, working in batches if necessary. This step is where big flavor happens and helps lock in those delicious juices.

Step 5: Finish in the Oven

Transfer your browned Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs to your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the centers are piping hot and cooked through (aim for 165ºF). The aroma from the sage and apple will drive everyone in your house wild with anticipation!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these gorgeous meatballs hot, straight from the oven. They’re fabulous over a tangle of butternut squash noodles, classic pasta, or even tucked inside a fresh roll for a unique fall sandwich.

How to Serve Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs

Garnishes

Take these already-stunning meatballs up a notch by showering them with finely chopped fresh sage or parsley. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving adds a bit of crunch and makes the flavors sing.

Side Dishes

For a cozy autumn meal, serve your Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs with roasted butternut squash, garlicky sautéed greens, or a crisp apple-fennel salad. Creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or grain salads also make perfect partners.

Creative Ways to Present

These meatballs are just as happy starring in a weeknight dinner as they are at a fall party. For entertaining, skewer them with decorative picks and serve with an apple cider glaze for dipping. Or nestle them atop mini rolls with a dollop of cranberry relish for irresistible sliders that your guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply let the meatballs cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making lunch or snacks the next day a treat.

Freezing

Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs freeze beautifully! Arrange the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. This makes them a fantastic meal-prep option for busy weeks.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm them on a baking sheet in a 325ºF oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just cover and heat in short bursts to prevent them from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different meat instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even a blend of turkey and chicken work wonderfully in this Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs recipe. Just keep an eye on the fat content to ensure juicy, flavorful results.

What type of apple is best for these meatballs?

Any crisp, sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji will add both moisture and flavor. Avoid overly soft apples, which can make the mixture too watery.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can form and brown the meatballs a day ahead, then bake them off just before serving. This saves time during busy evenings or when hosting a crowd with Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs on the menu.

Is there a substitute for almond flour?

If you don’t need these to be gluten-free, you can use regular breadcrumbs in place of almond flour, though the texture will be a bit different. For a nut-free and gluten-free option, try oat flour or even crushed gluten-free crackers.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The safest and surest way is to use an instant-read thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165ºF. You can also split one open to check that it’s no longer pink in the center.

Final Thoughts

Bringing Fall Apple Recipes – Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs to your table means bringing a little extra warmth and joy to any meal. They’re easy enough for weeknights, festive enough for gatherings, and brimming with the best flavors of the season. Gather your favorites, try them out, and watch these cozy meatballs become a cherished autumn staple!

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