Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in the cozy flavors of fall, you’ve found it! These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are not only delicious but also incredibly heartwarming. This recipe is one of my favorites because it brings together the comforting taste of turkey meatballs with the rich, creamy goodness of pumpkin sauce. Whether you’re whipping this up for a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this meal is sure to bring smiles all around.

The combination of savory turkey meatballs and the aromatic pumpkin sage sauce makes this dish perfect for any occasion. It’s simple enough to make during the week but fancy enough to impress guests at a dinner party. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: These meatballs are a hit with both kids and adults, making dinner stress-free!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them for busy nights.
• Delicious flavor profile: The blend of turkey, pumpkin, and sage creates a warm, inviting taste that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each component works together to create those delightful flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the best things about these turkey meatballs is their versatility! Feel free to customize them to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you’re looking for variety, try substituting ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives.
• Add some spice: For an extra kick, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Experiment with herbs: Instead of sage and parsley, use thyme or rosemary for a different flavor twist.
• Change up the sauce: Try adding some diced tomatoes or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and color.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by gathering all your turkey meatball ingredients. In a large bowl, combine your breadcrumbs with milk and let them soak for about 2-3 minutes. This step helps keep your meatballs moist! Then add in onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and eggs. Use a fork to mix everything until it’s well combined.

Step 2: Combine with Ground Turkey

Next, gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Be careful not to overwork the mixture; we want our meatballs tender! Your mixture will be sticky—this is completely normal!

Step 3: Chill the Meatballs

Using a scoop or your hands, form small balls from your mixture and place them on parchment paper. Pop these into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes so they firm up—this makes them easier to handle when frying.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Once chilled, roll each meatball between your palms for uniformity. Brush them lightly with olive oil before frying them in a hot skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown on all sides—about 10 minutes should do it! Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before removing them from the pan.

Step 5: Make the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

In that same skillet (to capture all those lovely flavors), melt ghee or butter and add olive oil. Sauté minced onion until softened before stirring in garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant. Then whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Allow your sauce to simmer gently so that those flavors can marry beautifully. Finally, stir in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and fresh sage. Once everything is well incorporated, add back your cooked meatballs into this decadent sauce so they can soak up all that goodness.

Now you’re ready to serve these delightful turkey meatballs drizzled with scrumptious pumpkin sage sauce over your favorite pasta or mashed potatoes! Enjoy every bite as you savor those autumn flavors!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Creating the perfect turkey meatballs is all about technique and a few special touches. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic!

• Soak the breadcrumbs: Letting the breadcrumbs soak in milk for a few minutes will help keep the meatballs moist and tender, preventing them from becoming dry during cooking.

• Chill before cooking: Allowing the meatballs to chill in the freezer for 20 to 25 minutes not only makes them easier to handle but also helps them hold their shape while frying.

• Use a gentle hand: When mixing the turkey meatball ingredients, combine them lightly. Over-mixing can lead to dense meatballs, so aim for just enough blending until everything is incorporated.

• Check doneness with a thermometer: To ensure your turkey meatballs are fully cooked and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

• Don’t skip the simmer: Letting the pumpkin sage sauce gently simmer allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer and more delicious sauce.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

This dish is not only comforting but also visually appealing! Here are some delightful presentation ideas that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fried sage leaves: These crispy leaves add a beautiful touch and an extra layer of flavor that complements both the meatballs and sauce.
• Extra grated parmesan: A sprinkle of fresh grated parmesan right before serving adds a lovely cheesy finish that enhances the overall taste.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture of mashed potatoes is perfect for soaking up that luscious pumpkin sage sauce, creating a comforting meal.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor adds a nice contrast to the sweet and savory notes of the dish, plus they bring a vibrant color to your plate.
• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread on the side is ideal for scooping up any remaining sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with seasonal vegetables provides freshness and balance against the richness of the meatballs and sauce.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the flavors of fall! Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delicious Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe!

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, and it stores beautifully for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled meatballs and sauce in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best flavor, store sauce separately from meatballs.

Freezing

• Allow meatballs and sauce to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze meatballs and sauce in separate containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will work beautifully in this recipe. Just follow the same instructions to prepare your meatballs.

How do I make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce healthier?

You can reduce calories by using low-fat parmesan cheese or swapping heavy cream with a lighter milk alternative. Enjoy without compromising on flavor!

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree is ideal for this recipe! Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling.

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

These savory meatballs pair wonderfully with gnocchi, pasta, or even mashed potatoes. You could also serve them over a bed of steamed vegetables.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these savory Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! This dish brings together delightful fall flavors that warm both heart and home. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!