Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious dish that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are not just any meatballs; they are juicy little bites of comfort drenched in a creamy, savory pumpkin sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe brings warmth and flavor to your table that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal ingredients!

What makes this recipe even more special is its inviting aroma and delightful taste. The combination of ground turkey and pumpkin with fresh sage creates a dish that feels both hearty and comforting. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket after a long day—pure bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tender meatballs, making it a hit at dinner time!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the meatballs in advance and freeze them for an easy meal later.
• Rich flavors: The creamy pumpkin sage sauce elevates the dish, adding warmth and depth with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce, you’ll need items that are likely already in your kitchen or easy to find at the store.

For the Turkey Meatballs

• 1 1/2 cups (slightly heaping) fresh breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs)
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 cup finely minced onion
• 4 garlic cloves, pressed through garlic press
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1 large whole egg plus 1 yolk
• 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat, 93/7 ratio lean to fat)
• 1 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Olive oil or avocado oil, for brushing over top and lightly frying
• 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely minced onion
• 6 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• (15 ounce) can plus 1 cup organic pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to your taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 3/4 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• Fried sage leaves, optional garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: If you prefer beef or chicken, you can easily substitute ground turkey with your choice of meat.
• Add veggies: Mix in some finely chopped spinach or grated carrots into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition!
• Change up the herbs: If you’re not a fan of sage, try using thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute ghee with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free option.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by gathering all your turkey meatball ingredients. In a large bowl, combine fresh breadcrumbs with milk and let them soak for about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps keep your meatballs moist. Next, add minced onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and both eggs. Using a fork, mix everything until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Ground Turkey

Now it’s time to add in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overwork it! The mixture will be sticky; that’s perfectly normal. Once mixed, scoop out about two tablespoons’ worth of mixture for each meatball and place them on a lined platter. Pop them into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. This chilling step makes them easier to handle when cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

After your meatballs have chilled nicely, wet your hands slightly with water or oil and roll each portion into smooth balls. Brush some olive oil over each meatball before cooking. Heat up a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Sear the meatballs until browned on all sides—this should take about 10 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Set cooked meatballs aside on a clean platter.

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

With your skillet still hot from cooking those tasty meatballs (no need to wash it!), add ghee (or butter) along with some olive oil. Sauté minced onion until softened—about 2-3 minutes will do! Add garlic and Italian seasoning next; once aromatic, whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Let your sauce simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes to blend those lovely flavors together. Now turn off the heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage for that final touch! Gently add those beautiful turkey meatballs back into the sauce just to warm through again.

And there you have it—serve these delightful turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce over gnocchi or mashed potatoes if you’re feeling indulgent! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Making turkey meatballs can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh breadcrumbs – Fresh breadcrumbs provide a better texture and moisture retention compared to dried ones, resulting in juicier meatballs.
• Chill the meatballs – Allowing the meatballs to chill in the freezer before cooking not only helps them hold their shape but also ensures they cook evenly without falling apart.
• Don’t overmix – Gently combine the ingredients when making your meatball mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so keep it light and fluffy!
• Sear on high heat – Browning the meatballs on high heat locks in flavors and moisture, giving you that delicious outer crust while keeping the inside juicy.
• Taste as you go – Before adding all the seasoning to your sauce, taste it! Adjust with more salt or seasoning as necessary for a well-balanced flavor.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Presenting your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can elevate your dining experience and impress your family or guests. Here are some great ideas on how to serve this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or sage leaves – A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs adds color and enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Grated parmesan cheese – A light dusting of grated parmesan not only looks fantastic but also adds an extra layer of richness to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that lovely pumpkin sage sauce, making every meal feel complete.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the sweetness of the pumpkin sauce beautifully.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Rich and buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with the savory meatballs and sauce.
• Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with veggies adds a healthy crunch and balances out the richness of this dish.

Now you’re ready to make an unforgettable meal that’s sure to warm hearts this fall! Enjoy your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing meals ahead of time can save you a lot of hassle during busy weeknights, and this Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is perfect for that! You can easily make a big batch and store it for later, ensuring you always have a delicious meal on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the turkey meatballs and pumpkin sage sauce into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the meatballs cool completely first.
• Place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on low power until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground chicken can be used as a great alternative in this Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe. The flavor will still be delightful!

How long does it take to cook the turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce?

The whole process takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes, including prep and cooking time for these flavorful Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko. This will allow everyone to enjoy these tasty turkey meatballs.

What sides pair well with turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce?

These meatballs are versatile! They go wonderfully with pasta like gnocchi or linguini, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Can I add vegetables to the pumpkin sage sauce?

Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition and flavor in your Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about warming your heart with comforting flavors that echo the essence of fall. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead for those busy days when you need something delicious on hand. I truly hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that every bite brings you joy. Happy cooking!

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