Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal, these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are just what you need! This dish has become a family favorite, filling our home with the warm aromas of fall. The combination of savory turkey meatballs nestled in a creamy pumpkin sage sauce is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests at a family gathering.

What makes this recipe special is its balance of flavors and textures. Each tender meatball is bursting with herbs, while the pumpkin sauce adds a lovely creaminess that elevates the dish. Whether served over pasta, gnocchi, or even mashed potatoes, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tasty meatballs and rich sauce.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip this up without any fuss.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze beautifully, making them great for quick meals later on.
• Fall Flavors: The pumpkin and sage create a warm and inviting taste that’s perfect for autumn.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it with your favorite side—pasta, rice, or bread—this dish can adapt to whatever you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that are easy to find. Let’s get cooking!

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
• Olive oil or avocado oil, for brushing over top and lightly frying

For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• 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! You can easily make adjustments based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try using ground chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian option!
• Add some spice: For a little kick, mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meatball mixture.
• Change up the herbs: If sage isn’t available, feel free to substitute with thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Make it lighter: Swap out heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter sauce that still tastes fantastic!

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. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable!

Step 2: Make the Turkey Meatballs

In a large bowl, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them soak for about 2 to 3 minutes. Then stir in the onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and both eggs until well combined. Adding these ingredients allows each meatball to be packed with flavor from the start.

Step 3: Combine with Turkey

Now it’s time to add in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Gently mix everything together using a light hand. Be careful not to overwork it; this keeps your meatballs tender.

Step 4: Chill Your Meatballs

Using a scoop measuring about two tablespoons, portion out your turkey mixture onto lined parchment paper. Pop these into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. Chilling helps firm them up so they hold their shape while cooking.

Step 5: Shape Your Meatballs

Once chilled, wet your hands slightly to make rolling easier. Form each portion into round meatballs quickly between your palms. This step ensures even cooking later on.

Step 6: Brown Your Meatballs

Brush each meatball lightly with olive oil before searing them in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Searing adds great color and flavor! Cook until browned on all sides—about ten minutes—and then set them aside on a clean platter.

Step 7: Prepare the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Wipe out your skillet after cooking the meatballs and add ghee (or butter) along with olive oil until melted. Sauté minced onions until softened before adding garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant—this builds layers of flavor in your sauce.

Step 8: Create the Sauce Base

Whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt and pepper plus chicken stock until smooth. Allow everything to simmer gently—this step combines all those lovely flavors together beautifully!

Step 9: Finish Up

After simmering for a couple of minutes, remove from heat and whisk in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup (for sweetness), and chopped sage. Stir gently as it thickens up nicely.

Step 10: Combine Everything

Return those glorious turkey meatballs back into your sauce and let them sit briefly just to warm through again. If using fried sage leaves as garnish now’s the time! Serve this delightful dish over gnocchi or pasta of choice—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Creating the perfect turkey meatballs and sauce can be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality spices can dramatically enhance the flavor of your meatballs and sauce, giving them that homemade touch that warms the heart.

• Chill the Meatballs: Allowing your shaped meatballs to chill in the freezer not only helps them hold their shape during cooking but also makes them easier to handle.

• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Searing your meatballs initially at medium-high heat creates a beautiful crust, while lowering the heat ensures they cook through without drying out—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Embrace Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully! Make extra meatballs and sauce for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

• Experiment with Sauces: While this pumpkin sage sauce is delicious, don’t hesitate to switch it up! Try a marinara or a creamy garlic sauce for variation on future meals.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Presenting your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can be just as fun as making them. Here are some ideas for creating a warm and inviting meal!

Garnishes

• Fried Sage Leaves: These crispy leaves add a lovely crunch and an aromatic touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds color but also freshens up each bite, balancing the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes make a comforting base for soaking up all that delicious pumpkin sage sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread is ideal for scooping up those savory meatballs and rich sauce—who could resist?
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash adds sweetness and texture, enhancing the fall theme of this dish.
• Pasta of Your Choice: Whether it’s gnocchi, penne, or linguini, pasta serves as a wonderful vehicle for enjoying those tender meatballs nestled in velvety sauce.

With these ideas in mind, you’re set to impress family and friends with your hearty turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. You can easily prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort during the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover turkey meatballs and pumpkin sage sauce in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, store the meatballs and sauce separately to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooked turkey meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid.
• Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, sealing tightly.
• The pumpkin sage sauce can also be frozen in a separate container. It will keep well for about 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen meatballs and sauce overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through, or use a microwave-safe dish to heat in the microwave at medium power.
• If using the stovetop, consider adding a splash of chicken stock or water to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about this delightful 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 instructions above for optimal freshness.

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

These turkey meatballs pair wonderfully with gnocchi, linguini, penne, bow ties, or even mashed potatoes. Choose your favorite side for a comforting meal!

How do I know when the turkey meatballs are fully cooked?

Turkey meatballs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a kitchen thermometer is the best way to ensure they are safe to eat.

Can I substitute ground turkey with another type of meat?

Yes! You can use ground chicken or lean beef as alternatives if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on your choice.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Definitely! Both the turkey meatballs and pumpkin sage sauce freeze beautifully. Follow the guidelines provided above for freezing and reheating.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce as much as I do! This recipe captures all those warm fall flavors that make your kitchen feel cozy and inviting. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience worth sharing with family and friends. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!