Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and home, you’ve come to the right place. These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are a beloved recipe that brings all the comforting flavors of fall right to your table. Imagine tender turkey meatballs simmered in a creamy pumpkin sauce infused with fresh sage—sounds delightful, doesn’t it? This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making everyone feel nourished and happy.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple yet satisfying it is. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, these meatballs are sure to impress. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome ingredients that bring both flavor and nutrition to your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, these turkey meatballs come together quickly, making dinner stress-free.
• Family-friendly: The delicious blend of flavors ensures even picky eaters will enjoy this hearty meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them for later use—perfect for meal prep!
• Comforting flavors: The combination of pumpkin and sage creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen with happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delicious turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce. You’ll find everything you need right here!

For the 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
• 1 (15 ounce) can plus 1 cup organic pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to 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 get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: If you like spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meatball mixture for a kick.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
• Switch up the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary if you don’t have sage on hand.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by gathering and prepping all your turkey meatball ingredients according to the list above. In a large bowl, add your breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them soak for about 2-3 minutes—this helps keep the meatballs moist. Once they’ve soaked up the milk, mix in your onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and eggs until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Combine with Ground Turkey

Next, gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. It’s essential to mix lightly so that the meat doesn’t become dense; we want our meatballs fluffy and tender. Remember that this mixture will be sticky—that’s completely normal!

Step 3: Chill Your Meatballs

Using a scoop or your hands, portion out two-tablespoon-sized meatballs onto a lined platter. Pop them into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. Chilling makes them easier to handle when frying.

Step 4: Sear Your Meatballs

Once chilled, lightly wet your hands with water or oil and roll each portion into round balls. Brush them with olive oil before placing them into a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Let them sear until browned on all sides—this locks in flavor.

Step 5: Make the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

After frying all your meatballs and setting them aside on a plate, wipe out your skillet and add ghee or butter along with olive oil. Sauté minced onions until they’re soft before stirring in garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant. Then whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, chicken stock until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Allow your sauce to simmer gently for about two-three minutes so those flavors can meld beautifully together. Turn off the heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage last for extra depth of flavor!

Finally, return those lovely turkey meatballs back into the pan to warm through again before serving over pasta or mashed potatoes—whatever accompanies your taste buds best!

Enjoy every bite of these heartfelt Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Creating the perfect turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can be a breeze with these handy tips!

• Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs provide better texture and moisture compared to dried ones, allowing your meatballs to stay juicy and flavorful.
• Chill the meatballs: Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart while frying or simmering in the sauce.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combining the ingredients ensures that your meatballs remain tender. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Since flavor preferences vary, always taste your mixture before cooking. You can add more herbs or spices to suit your palate.
• Simmer gently: Once you add the meatballs to the sauce, allow them to warm through gently. This lets the flavors meld beautifully without overcooking the meat.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Presenting your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can turn a simple meal into an elegant dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fried sage leaves: Crispy fried sage leaves not only add a beautiful touch but also enhance the aromatic flavors of the dish.
• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting base that soaks up all that delicious pumpkin sage sauce.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances out the richness of the meatballs perfectly, adding a lovely crunch.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and is packed with nutrients.
• Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta—gnocchi, linguine, or penne—creating a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have everything you need for a cozy dinner that’s bursting with flavor! Enjoy every bite of your Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade comfort food throughout the week. You can easily make a batch ahead of time, store it properly, and savor the flavors whenever you crave a warm and hearty meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the meatballs are cooled to room temperature before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish at medium power until heated thoroughly, checking every minute.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey in this recipe?

Yes! Ground chicken is a great alternative if you prefer it over turkey. The flavor will vary slightly but will still yield delicious meatballs.

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

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta like gnocchi or linguini, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

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

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Ensure your chicken stock is also gluten-free.

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Just follow the storage guidelines above for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! With their savory flavors that beautifully capture the essence of fall, they’re sure to become a favorite at your family dinner table. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations; I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Happy cooking!