Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms both your heart and your kitchen, look no further than these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce. This recipe is a family favorite of mine, especially during the cooler months when comfort food is a must. The combination of savory turkey meatballs nestled in a creamy pumpkin sauce, infused with sage, creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly inviting. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love these flavorful meatballs, making it perfect for picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them for a quick weeknight meal.
• Seasonal Flavors: Celebrate fall with the warm flavors of pumpkin and sage that bring comfort to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich and satisfying dish. Gather these items to make your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce shine!

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 flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: Mix in red pepper flakes or spicy sausage for an extra kick.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a different flavor profile.
• Creamy alternatives: For dairy-free options, replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering and prepping all of your turkey meatball ingredients according to the list above. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes so that the bread absorbs the milk’s moisture. Then add in the minced onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and egg. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that every bite of your turkey meatballs is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Combine with Ground Turkey

Next, gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender meatball texture rather than a dense one. The mixture will be sticky—that’s perfectly okay!

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Using a scoop or spoon, portion out your meatballs onto a lined platter. Place them in the freezer for about 20-25 minutes to firm up. This chilling step helps maintain their shape while cooking.

Step 5: Shape Your Meatballs

Once chilled, lightly wet your hands and roll each portion into round meatballs. This simple trick helps prevent sticking and makes shaping easier.

Step 6: Sear the Meatballs

Brush each meatball with olive oil before heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear them until they’re brown on all sides—about 10 minutes total—then set aside on a clean platter. Browning adds depth of flavor while keeping them juicy inside.

Step 7: Prepare the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

In the same skillet used for frying the meatballs (after wiping it out), melt together ghee and olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced onion until softened before adding garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant—this builds great flavor at this stage!

Step 8: Add Pumpkin Puree

Whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth. Allowing this mixture to simmer brings all those lovely flavors together.

Step 9: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Turn off the heat and gently mix in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and fresh sage into your sauce. These ingredients create that rich creamy texture we crave!

Step 10: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Add your cooked turkey meatballs back into the skillet with sauce just long enough to warm through again—about five minutes will do! Top with fried sage leaves if desired before serving.

Now serve these delightful turkey meatballs over gnocchi, pasta of choice like linguini or bow ties—or even creamy mashed potatoes! Your family will love this hearty dish filled with autumn flavors!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Making turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips to guide you along the way!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh sage and parsley enhance the flavor of your meatballs and sauce significantly compared to dried herbs. They bring a bright, aromatic quality that’s perfect for this fall-inspired dish.

• Chill the meatballs: Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart during frying. It also enhances the flavors as they meld together.

• Check the temperature: Ensure your meatballs are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees they’re safe to eat and helps achieve that juicy texture we all love.

• Customize the sauce: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in your pumpkin sage sauce based on your taste preferences! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can add a wonderful warmth that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

• Make ahead: These turkey meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. This makes meal prep easier, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dinner on busy nights!

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Presenting your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce creatively can turn this comforting dish into an impressive feast. Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and deliciously satisfying!

Garnishes

• Fried sage leaves: Lightly frying sage leaves adds a crispy texture and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the dish.
• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens up the plate but also adds a pop of color that makes your meal more inviting.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of grated parmesan just before serving enhances the rich flavors of both the meatballs and sauce.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The fluffy texture of mashed potatoes is perfect for soaking up the savory pumpkin sage sauce, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is great for sopping up any extra sauce left on your plate, adding an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slightly bitter taste of Brussels sprouts balances out the sweetness of the pumpkin while adding a delightful crunch.
• Buttery egg noodles: Soft egg noodles provide a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the hearty turkey meatballs and rich sauce, creating a cozy dinner experience.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on what you have available or what you’re craving. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce throughout the week. With a few simple storage methods, you can have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the turkey meatballs and sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled turkey 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 if desired.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Alternatively, heat frozen meatballs in the microwave on medium power until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

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

Yes! Ground chicken can be a great alternative to turkey. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it might vary slightly.

How do I ensure my Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are moist?

To keep your meatballs moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients and ensure they are not cooked too long. Chilling them before cooking helps maintain their shape and moisture.

Can I replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version of this dish.

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

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, gnocchi, mashed potatoes, or even on top of rice for a hearty meal.

How long does it take to make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

The total time from prep to table is about 1 hour and 5 minutes—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these savory turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce! This dish brings together rich flavors that truly embody the essence of comfort food. Whether it’s for dinner tonight or meal prepping for later, I believe you’ll love every bite. Enjoy creating this warm, delightful recipe and don’t hesitate to share your experience!