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Pumpkin Turkey Meatballs Recipe

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4.6 from 139 reviews

These easy pumpkin turkey meatballs combine lean ground turkey with protein-rich pumpkin puree and aromatic spices to create moist, flavorful, and tender meatballs. With a simple mix-and-bake method, they are perfect for a nutritious dinner or meal prep, offering a seasonal twist to classic meatballs.

Ingredients

Meatball Mixture

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Optional for Searing

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional for Serving

  • Your favorite sauce (e.g., marinara)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, pumpkin puree, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to evenly distribute all flavors.
  2. Add Egg and Mix: Crack in the egg and gently mix all ingredients with clean hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5 tablespoon-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each for even cooking.
  4. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
  5. Optional Searing: For extra browning and flavor, sear the baked meatballs in a skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side either before or after baking.
  6. Optional Simmering: Simmer the baked meatballs in your favorite sauce for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavors and become more tender before serving.

Notes

  • Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture to ensure tender meatballs.
  • Using canned pumpkin puree adds moisture and nutrition but avoid pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugars and spices.
  • You can substitute almond flour with breadcrumbs if preferred, but this may change the carb content.
  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee safety and perfect doneness.
  • These meatballs can be frozen after shaping but before baking; bake directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes to cook time.
  • Try serving with low-sugar marinara sauce or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/pumpkin-turkey-meatballs-recipe/