Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, look no further! These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are a cherished family recipe that I love to whip up during the fall months. The combination of savory turkey meatballs and creamy pumpkin sage sauce creates a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This dish is not only delicious but also brings that delightful autumn flavor to your table.

Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as you simmer these meatballs in their flavorful sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or making it a star at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these juicy turkey meatballs smothered in a creamy pumpkin sauce.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use, saving you time on busy nights.
• Fall Flavors at Their Best: With pumpkin and sage, this dish captures the essence of autumn in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. Gather them up and let’s get started on making some delicious Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce!

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

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to play around with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or beef if turkey isn’t your favorite.
• Add some greens: Mix in finely chopped spinach or kale into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
• Vegan alternative: Substitute ground turkey with lentils or chickpeas combined with breadcrumbs to create a plant-based version.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by gathering all of your turkey meatball ingredients. In a large bowl, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them soak for about 2 to 3 minutes; this helps keep the meatballs moist. Then mix in the minced onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and egg until well combined.

Step 2: Combine with Ground Turkey

Next, add in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Be gentle while mixing—overworking can lead to tough meatballs. The mixture will be sticky; that’s perfectly okay!

Step 3: Chill Before Cooking

Using a tablespoon scoop, portion out your mixture onto a lined platter. Pop these into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. Chilling helps them hold their shape when cooking.

Step 4: Roll into Meatballs

After chilling, wet your palms slightly with water or oil and roll each portion into round meatballs. This step makes them nice and uniform!

Step 5: Brown the Meatballs

Brush olive oil over each meatball before placing them in a hot skillet. Sear until brown on all sides—this adds great flavor! Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Prepare the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Once cooked, set aside the meatballs and prep your sauce ingredients. Wipe out any residue from the skillet then melt ghee (or butter) with olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced onion until soft before adding garlic and Italian seasoning.

Step 7: Create Your Sauce Base

Whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth. Simmer gently for several minutes to meld those wonderful flavors together.

Step 8: Final Touches

Turn off heat and incorporate grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage into your sauce. Stir gently until everything is mixed well.

Step 9: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Finally, add your browned meatballs back into the skillet with sauce just long enough to warm through again. Serve alongside gnocchi or mashed potatoes—your choice!

Enjoy every savory bite of these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Creating the perfect turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce is a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family and friends!

• Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs hold moisture better than dried ones, which keeps your meatballs juicy and tender. Panko breadcrumbs are also a great option for an extra crispy texture.

• Chill the meatballs: Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps them maintain their shape and makes them easier to handle. This step ensures they don’t fall apart while frying.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the meatball mixture, a gentle hand is key. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs; just mix until everything is combined for a light and airy texture.

• Taste test the seasoning: Before cooking all your meatballs, cook a small sample to taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and spices as needed to ensure robust flavors throughout.

• Sear for flavor: Searing the meatballs creates a delicious crust that adds depth to the dish. Make sure your skillet is hot enough to achieve that golden-brown color without cooking through completely.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Presenting this dish beautifully will make it even more inviting! Here are some ideas for serving it up in style.

Garnishes

• Fried sage leaves: These crispy leaves add a lovely crunch and enhance the sage flavor in the sauce.
• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brings a pop of color but also lends a fresh taste that complements the richness of the meal.
• Extra grated parmesan: A light dusting of parmesan on top adds creaminess and visual appeal, making each bite even more decadent.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the rich pumpkin sage sauce, soaking up all those delightful flavors.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slight bitterness contrasts nicely with the sweet pumpkin sauce, creating a balanced plate that excites your palate.
• Garlic bread: Perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce, garlic bread adds a comforting touch to this already hearty meal.
• Pasta of choice: Whether you prefer gnocchi or penne, pasta serves as an excellent base, allowing you to enjoy every bit of that luscious sauce.

Enjoy bringing this warm and comforting dish to your table! Each bite is sure to remind you of autumn’s cozy embrace.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze portions for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the mixture has cooled completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Reheat the meatballs on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to help warm them through.
• You can also reheat them in the microwave; cover them loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap to keep moisture in.
• Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare both the turkey meatballs and pumpkin sage sauce ahead of time. Just follow the storage tips outlined above for best results.

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

These turkey meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta such as gnocchi or linguini, but they also taste incredible over mashed potatoes or polenta for a cozy meal.

How do I ensure my turkey meatballs are moist?

To keep your turkey meatballs juicy, avoid overmixing when combining ingredients. The mixture should be sticky and moist before rolling into balls.

Can I substitute the ground turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken or lean beef can be used as alternatives if desired. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly based on your choice of meat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce as much as I do! This recipe is not just about flavors; it’s about creating warm memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing it for family or friends, it’s sure to impress everyone. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experiences!