Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that perfectly embodies the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are not just any meatballs; they are tender, juicy, and smothered in a creamy pumpkin sauce that’s packed with savory herbs. This recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone’s palate.

The best part? You can make this hearty meal ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. No fuss, no stress—just pure comfort food goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, anyone can whip these up in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious flavors of turkey and pumpkin.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Versatile: Serve them over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even on their own as an appetizer.
• Seasonal flavors: The combination of pumpkin and sage captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store. Each ingredient plays a role in creating those rich, comforting flavors that make this dish so special.

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 experiment with these variations to make it your own.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
• Add some heat: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
• Change up the herbs: If sage isn’t your favorite, fresh thyme or rosemary work beautifully too.
• Make it dairy-free: Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by gathering all your turkey meatball ingredients. This step is important because having everything ready makes cooking smoother. In a large bowl, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them soak for about 2-3 minutes. This helps keep your meatballs moist!

Step 2: Mix It Up

Add in the minced onion, garlic, fresh sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and both egg components into your soaked breadcrumbs. Use a fork to mix everything together until well combined. It’s crucial not to overwork this mixture; we want those meatballs tender!

Step 3: Combine with Ground Turkey

Now it’s time to gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Be careful not to overmix; we just want everything evenly combined. The mixture will be sticky—that’s normal!

Step 4: Chill Your Meatballs

Using a two-tablespoon scoop, shape your mixture into meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined platter. Pop them into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes; this helps them hold their shape while cooking.

Step 5: Sear Those Meatballs

Once chilled, wet your hands slightly with water or oil. Roll each meatball into a nice round shape. Brush some olive oil over them before placing them in a hot skillet drizzled with oil. Sear until golden brown on all sides—this adds great flavor!

Step 6: Cook Through

After browning your first batch of meatballs for around ten minutes (or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F), set them aside on a clean platter.

Step 7: Make the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

In that same skillet (after wiping it out), melt together ghee and olive oil before sautéing minced onion until soft—about 2-3 minutes. Adding garlic afterward creates an aromatic base for our sauce.

Step 8: Bring It All Together

Whisk in pumpkin puree along with seasonings and chicken stock until smooth. Allow this sauce to simmer gently for about two minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld together.

Step 9: Finish It Up

Turn off the heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage. Add those lovely turkey meatballs back into the sauce just long enough for them to warm through again.

Now you’re ready! Serve these delightful turkey meatballs with pumpkin sage sauce over gnocchi, linguini, or whatever you love most! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Creating the perfect turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce is all about technique and a few helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time:

• Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs absorb moisture better than store-bought ones, keeping your meatballs juicy and tender.
• Chill the meatballs before cooking: Chilling helps the meatballs firm up, making them easier to handle and preventing them from falling apart during cooking.
• Don’t overmix the meat: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatballs light and airy. Overmixing can result in dense, tough meatballs.
• Sear for flavor: Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce enhances their flavor. The caramelization adds depth to both the meatballs and the overall dish.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste your sauce before serving. You can adjust salt, pepper, or even add a touch of sweetness with extra maple syrup for balance.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Serving turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can be a delightful experience that warms both the heart and the palate! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped sage or parsley brightens up the appearance and adds a burst of flavor.
• Fried sage leaves: Crispy fried sage leaves make a lovely garnish that adds an extra crunch and herbal note to your dish. They’re easy to prepare and look stunning on top!

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the rich pumpkin sage sauce, making every bite comforting.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as Brussels sprouts or carrots bring color, flavor, and nutrition, complementing the savory tones of the turkey meatballs.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs.
• Garlic bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover pumpkin sage sauce—deliciously satisfying!

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy meal that celebrates fall flavors while bringing family and friends together around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty meals throughout the week without the fuss of daily cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, ensure the sauce fully covers the meatballs.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat thawed meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also reheat them gently in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.
• If reheating from frozen, allow extra time or defrost prior for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey in Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield similar results. Just ensure it’s cooked to the right internal temperature.

What makes Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce so special?

This dish combines tender turkey meatballs with a creamy pumpkin sage sauce that perfectly captures the essence of fall flavors, making it comforting and satisfying.

How do I adjust the spice level in Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for some added heat. Just remember to start small and taste as you go!

Can I make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your chicken stock is gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! This dish is not only comforting but also full of flavor, perfect for cozy dinners with loved ones. Enjoy making this delightful meal, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me—happy cooking!