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Smoky Pumpkin Lentil Meatballs

Name: Smoky Pumpkin Lentil Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Plant-based
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 small onion, diced; ½ cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative); ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Posted on September 2, 2025

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of Smoky Pumpkin Lentil Meatballs wafting through your kitchen. Imagine a medley of spices mingling with the earthy scent of lentils and the rich sweetness of pumpkin, creating a symphony of flavors that make your taste buds dance. delicious sweet potato fritters You can almost hear them singing, “Eat us! Eat us!”

I remember the first time I made these delightful meatballs. It was during a cozy fall evening, and I was trying to impress my friends at a dinner party. Little did I know that these Smoky Pumpkin Lentil Meatballs would not only wow my guests but also become the star of every gathering since then. spicy butternut squash stew They are perfect for game nights, family dinners, or even as a snack while binge-watching your favorite series.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Smoky Pumpkin Lentil Meatballs are a breeze to prepare, making meal prep easy and fun
The combination of flavors is simply out of this world, creating a dish that’s both hearty and healthy
With their vibrant orange hue, they bring a pop of color to any plate
Versatile enough for pasta dishes, salads, or even on their own as appetizers

Every time I serve these meatballs, my friends rave about them. They can’t believe they are plant-based!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Red Lentils: These cook quickly and become soft; perfect for meatball texture and flavor. cranberry orange quick bread.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree for an earthy sweetness without additives.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky depth that elevates the flavors to new heights.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; fresh garlic works too if you prefer it! For more inspiration, check out this Easy Fresh Herbed Tuna Salad recipe.
Onion: Diced finely to add sweetness and moisture; sauté until translucent for best results.
Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free versions if needed; they help bind the mixture together nicely.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness; feel free to substitute with your favorite herbs.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
Olive Oil: For cooking; it adds richness and helps achieve that golden brown color.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This ensures any dirt or impurities are removed.

Sauté the Onions: In a pan over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onions until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about 5 minutes will do the trick.

Cook the Lentils: Add rinsed lentils to boiling water in a pot. Let them cook for about 15 minutes or until tender but not mushy; drain any excess water.

Create the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, pumpkin puree, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined; your hands work wonders here!

Shape into Balls: Use your hands to form small balls from the mixture—about 1 inch in diameter works perfectly. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake meatballs for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown; flipping halfway through ensures even cooking.

Now you have an irresistible batch of Smoky Pumpkin Lentil Meatballs ready to be enjoyed! Serve them over spaghetti with marinara sauce or enjoy them on their own with some dipping sauce—the possibilities are endless! savory turkey meatball sliders.

You Must Know

These smoky pumpkin lentil meatballs combine rich flavors and delightful textures, perfect for impressing guests while being easy to prepare
The aroma of spices will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy autumn day every time you cook them

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the lentils until tender while roasting the pumpkin. Combine all ingredients into a flavorful mixture, then shape into meatballs and bake until golden brown.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap lentils for chickpeas or add chopped nuts for extra crunch. Experiment with spices; smoked paprika can add an extra layer of flavor that takes these meatballs over the top.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, maintaining their delightful texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your pumpkin is roasted well for sweetness; undercooked pumpkin can lead to bland meatballs
Use freshly ground spices for maximum flavor impact
Don’t skip chilling the mixture before shaping; it helps the meatballs hold together better

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of a chilly fall evening when my family devoured these smoky pumpkin lentil meatballs. Everyone couldn’t get enough, even the picky eaters! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs recipe.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pumpkin works well but may alter the texture slightly.

How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or oats to maintain consistency.

What sauce pairs best with smoky pumpkin lentil meatballs?

A tangy marinara or creamy tahini sauce complements their smoky flavor beautifully.