Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs Recipe

These juicy Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs combine savory ground turkey, crisp apples, and fresh sage for a cozy fall dinner that’s light yet full of flavor. Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners, they pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad. If you’re planning your Thanksgiving menu, you might also love these Thanksgiving side dishes.

Why You’ll Love It

Flavorful and aromatic: The mix of apple, sage, and onion brings classic fall warmth to lean turkey.
Healthy and lean: Made with ground turkey instead of beef or pork.
Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or in a grain bowl.
Meal-prep friendly: Easy to freeze and reheat throughout the week.

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 small apple, peeled and grated (Honeycrisp or Gala works great)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh sage (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying)

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated apple, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
Roll into 1½-inch meatballs and set aside on a plate.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the meatballs for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Serve warm with mashed potatoes, a drizzle of gravy, or cranberry sauce for a seasonal touch.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken instead of turkey for a lighter twist.
Add a touch of maple syrup to the mix for subtle sweetness.
Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes if you prefer oven-baked over pan-fried.
Serve over rice or alongside Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for a festive platter.

Serving Suggestions

These turkey meatballs taste amazing with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even tossed in a light apple cider glaze. For a comforting fall dinner, serve them with Lemon Herb Rice or a side of Roasted Delicata Squash.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! Form the meatballs and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.

What type of apple works best?

Crisp and slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala balance the savory flavors perfectly.

Can I bake instead of frying?

Absolutely. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for 20 minutes or until cooked through.

More to Try

Conclusion

These Apple and Sage Turkey Meatballs bring the perfect mix of sweet and savory to your fall dinner table. They’re simple, wholesome, and sure to become a seasonal favorite. Try them with mashed potatoes or a fresh fall salad for a satisfying meal everyone will love.