Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that brings the warmth of fall to your table, you’ve come to the right place! These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are one of my absolute favorite meals to whip up when the weather turns chilly. The combination of juicy turkey meatballs nestled in a creamy pumpkin sauce is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish has a way of making any occasion feel just a bit more special.

What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying it is to eat. Plus, the pumpkin sage sauce adds a unique twist that delights everyone at the table. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds, and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just over an hour from start to finish, you can have this delicious meal ready without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these tender meatballs swimming in a rich sauce—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Flavorful and Wholesome: The combination of turkey, pumpkin, and fresh herbs creates an irresistible flavor profile that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve over pasta, gnocchi, or even mashed potatoes—this dish fits perfectly with whatever you love!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering wholesome ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For these savory turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, you’ll need some simple pantry staples along with fresh herbs that make this dish sing.

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! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: If you like a little kick, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes into your meatball mixture or sauce.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a creamy texture without the dairy.
• Change up the herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be great alternatives to sage if you’re looking for something different.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all of your turkey meatball ingredients according to the list above. Having everything organized makes cooking so much smoother and more enjoyable. Trust me; it saves time and keeps things stress-free!

Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, add your breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them soak for about 2 to 3 minutes—this step helps keep your meatballs moist and tender! Next, mix in your onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, whole egg, and yolk with a fork until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine with Ground Turkey

Now it’s time to add in your ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Using a light hand, gently combine everything until just mixed—be careful not to overwork it! The mixture will be sticky; that’s perfectly normal and means they’ll turn out juicy.

Step 4: Chill Your Meatballs

Using a tablespoon scoop, portion out your meatballs onto a lined platter. Place them in the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. Chilling them makes rolling easier later on!

Step 5: Shape Your Meatballs

Once chilled, wet your palms lightly with water or oil before rolling each portion into round meatballs. This helps prevent sticking—and it’s fun too!

Step 6: Sear Your Meatballs

Brush each meatball lightly with olive oil. Heat up a skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in some oil. Once hot, add batches of meatballs; let them sear until browned on all sides. This step adds delicious flavor!

Step 7: Cook Thoroughly

Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F—about 10 minutes total. Set cooked meatballs aside on a clean platter while you prepare the sauce.

Step 8: Make the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

In that same skillet (don’t wipe it out!), melt ghee or butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add minced onion first; sauté until softened—this brings out their sweetness! Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant.

Step 9: Add Pumpkin Puree

Whisk in your pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, chicken stock until smooth. Allow it to simmer gently so those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 10: Finish Off Your Sauce

Remove from heat after simmering for just a few minutes. Gently whisk in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and freshly chopped sage—it’s going to smell amazing!

Step 11: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Gently add your cooked meatballs back into the warm sauce just long enough to reheat them through again—oh-so-delicious!

Step 12: Serve Up!

Top with fried sage leaves if desired then serve over gnocchi or pasta of choice—or enjoy as-is! Each bite is packed with fall flavors that are sure to become a new favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

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

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and produce not only enhance the flavor but also elevate the overall quality of your dish. Fresh sage and garlic give a fragrant aroma that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combining the ingredients helps maintain the meatballs’ tenderness. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so mix just until everything is combined.
• Chill before cooking: Allowing the meatballs to chill in the freezer for 20-25 minutes makes them easier to handle and helps them hold their shape while cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect round form!
• Sear for flavor: Browning the meatballs before simmering them in sauce adds depth and richness to the overall flavor. The caramelization creates a delicious crust that enhances each bite.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and spices during cooking to suit your palate. This ensures that your dish is seasoned just right!

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Presenting your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can turn an everyday meal into something special. Here are some creative serving ideas to impress your family or guests!

Garnishes

• Fried sage leaves: Crispy sage leaves add a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor, making them a delightful topping for your dish.
• Chopped parsley or chives: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and freshness, brightening up the rich sauce.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of extra Parmesan enhances the dish’s creaminess and provides an appealing finish.

Side Dishes

• Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy gnocchi pairs wonderfully with this hearty sauce, soaking up all those delightful flavors.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a perfect base, creating a comforting meal that’s hard to resist.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition, complementing the savory meatballs beautifully.
• Quinoa or rice pilaf: These wholesome grains provide a nutty contrast to the rich sauce while adding a nutritious element to your plate.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! Each bite promises warmth and comfort—perfect for cozy evenings at home. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips to help you store and reheat your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the meatballs and sauce into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Portion the meatballs and sauce into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Seal tightly and label with the date; they will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use beef instead of turkey for meatballs?

While this recipe focuses on turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, you can substitute ground beef if preferred. Keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly!

What ingredients are essential for Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

Essential ingredients include ground turkey, breadcrumbs, pumpkin puree, fresh sage, garlic, and parmesan cheese. These components create a savory and comforting dish!

How do I ensure my turkey meatballs stay moist?

To keep your turkey meatballs moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients and ensure not to overcook them. Using dark meat turkey helps retain moisture as well.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko as a substitute for traditional breadcrumbs.

What should I serve with Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

These flavorful meatballs pair beautifully with gnocchi, pasta (like linguini or penne), or even creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! This warming dish is a true celebration of fall flavors that brings comfort to any dinner table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite sides or garnishes. Enjoy every bite—happy cooking!