Lemon Thyme Meatballs with Creamy Pumpkin Orzo
Lemon Thyme Meatballs with Creamy Pumpkin Orzo is a delightful dish that beautifully marries savory and sweet flavors. Juicy ground turkey meatballs seasoned with fresh thyme and zesty lemon are baked to perfection and served atop a rich, creamy pumpkin orzo. This comforting meal not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also provides a warm and inviting dinner option for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Prepare to impress your loved ones with this simple yet sophisticated recipe that encapsulates the essence of autumn.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix ground turkey, garlic, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form mixture into small meatballs (approx. 1 inch in diameter) and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cook orzo according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, combine pumpkin puree and heavy cream over medium heat until warmed. Stir in Parmesan until melted.
- Fold in cooked orzo and meatballs into the creamy sauce; serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg