Description
Savory meatballs infused with lemon and thyme, served over creamy pumpkin orzo. A comforting and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or a mixture)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, thyme, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.
- Remove meatballs from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Add pumpkin puree and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return meatballs to the skillet with the orzo. Heat through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme sprigs.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 100mg