Turkey and Pumpkin Meatballs: A Healthy, Tasty Treat for Your Dog

Looking to treat your dog to something warm, hearty, and homemade?

These Turkey and Pumpkin Meatballs are a delicious, nutrient-packed option that’ll have your dog wagging their tail in excitement! Perfect for a snack, a training treat, or even a meal topper, these meatballs are as healthy as they are tasty 😉

Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make!

Disclosure: As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Ingredients: Simple and Dog-Approved

These meatballs require just a few ingredients, each carefully chosen for your pup’s health.

  • 1 lb ground turkey – Lean protein that supports muscle health without adding too much fat.
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin – Pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix) adds fiber and vitamins A and C, which support digestion and immune health.
  • 1/4 cup oat flour – Acts as a gentle binder while adding a bit of fiber; a good alternative for dogs sensitive to grains.
  • 1 egg – Helps hold everything together and adds a touch of extra protein.

Optional additions: A pinch of parsley for fresh breath or a sprinkle of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory benefits.

🐾 Join The Dog Recipe Club! 🐶

Become a Member for Just $2/month

Every week, receive a printable PDF packed with 10 fresh, dog-approved recipes to keep your pup happy, healthy, and excited for mealtime! 🦴

👨‍🍳 10 New Recipes Weekly
📖 Printable Recipe Cards
🥗 Healthy Ingredients
🎯 Easy-to-Follow Steps

Join our pack of happy dog parents making tails wag with delicious homemade treats! 🦴

Join The Club Today! 🐾

Instructions: Quick and Easy

Get these meatballs ready for your pup in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the meatballs bake evenly and keeps cleanup hassle-free.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, canned pumpkin, oat flour, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. If the mixture feels too sticky, add a little more oat flour.

Step 3: Roll into Meatballs

Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into small meatballs (about the size of a walnut). Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until they’re firm and lightly browned. For a bit more crunch, bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the meatballs cool completely before serving them to your pup. They’ll be tempted to dive right in, but make sure they’re cool enough for those eager mouths!

Why These Ingredients Work

Each ingredient in these meatballs is chosen with your dog’s health in mind:

  • Turkey: A lean source of protein, turkey supports muscle health and is often gentler on the stomach than other meats.
  • Pumpkin: Rich in fiber, pumpkin aids digestion and can help soothe sensitive stomachs. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins A and C, essential for immunity and eye health.
  • Oat Flour: Gentle on digestion and high in fiber, oat flour provides a grain-free alternative that’s perfect for dogs with grain sensitivities.
  • Egg: A natural binder and protein booster, egg helps hold the meatballs together while adding nutrients.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These meatballs are perfect for making ahead of time and storing for easy access later.

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized bags for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs are versatile, so here are a few ways to serve them:

  • Training Treats: Break the meatballs into smaller pieces for training sessions.
  • Meal Topper: Crumble a meatball or two over your dog’s regular food for a flavor boost.
  • Snack Time: Serve a few meatballs as a mid-day snack or a post-walk treat.

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute the oat flour?
Yes! Coconut flour or almond flour also work well, though they may slightly alter the consistency.

Q: How many meatballs should I give my dog each day?
One or two meatballs make a great snack, but adjust based on your dog’s size and daily calorie needs.

Q: What if my dog is allergic to eggs?
No problem! Use a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) as a binder instead.

Q: Can I add other ingredients?
Yes, but stick to dog-safe veggies like carrots or zucchini. Finely shred or chop any additions before mixing.

Q: Are these suitable for puppies?
Yes, but serve in smaller portions and watch their intake to avoid overfeeding.

Q: Can I make this in a mini muffin tin?
Absolutely! Just scoop the mixture into a greased mini muffin tin and bake for the same amount of time.

Q: Can I eat these myself?
Technically, yes! They’re made from human-grade ingredients. Just know they’re designed with doggy taste buds in mind.

Final Thoughts

These Turkey and Pumpkin Meatballs are the perfect way to show your pup some love while keeping their diet nutritious and allergy-friendly. They’re easy to make, store well, and can be used as treats, toppers, or training rewards. Your dog will love the taste, and you’ll love knowing exactly what’s in them.

So grab those ingredients and get rolling—your dog’s about to be one happy pup!

10 easy fall-inspired dog treats

Get Our 10 Printable Fall-Inspired Dog Treat Recipes For FREE!

We guarantee that these recipes will make your dog happy 🙂

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

10 easy fall-inspired dog treats

Get Our 10 Printable Fall-Inspired Dog Treat Recipes For FREE!

We guarantee that these recipes will make your dog happy 🙂

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *