If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal to warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromas, these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are just the ticket! This dish beautifully marries the rich flavors of turkey and pumpkin, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s not only delicious but also embodies the essence of fall, bringing joy to any table.

I love making this recipe because it’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping everyone at the dinner table smiling. Whether you’re serving it over pasta or alongside mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Delicious: The combination of turkey meatballs and pumpkin sage sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that’s both filling and flavorful.
Simple Ingredients: With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up this comforting meal without any fuss.
Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy these tender meatballs! It’s a great way to introduce new flavors to picky eaters.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over your favorite pasta or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal that suits any palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Let’s gather what we need for our 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
Fried sage leaves, optional garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you might consider trying:

Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
Add veggies: Mix in finely grated zucchini or carrots into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.
Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little kick in your meatballs.
Herb alternatives: Experiment with other fresh 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 all your ingredients for the turkey meatballs. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk; let them soak for about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps keep the meatballs moist! Next, mix in onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan, and both egg components until well combined.

Step 2: Combine with Ground Turkey

Now it’s time to add the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Use a light hand when mixing; you want everything just combined without overworking it. Remember, the mixture will be sticky—that’s perfectly normal!

Step 3: Chill the Meatballs

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

Step 4: Shape and Cook the Meatballs

Once chilled, wet your hands with water or oil and gently roll each portion into round meatballs. Brush them lightly with olive oil before searing them in a hot skillet. Searing adds an amazing depth of flavor while helping lock in juices—so don’t skip this step!

Step 5: Prepare the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

After cooking all your meatballs, wipe down the skillet and heat ghee and oil together. Sauté minced onion until soft before adding garlic and Italian seasoning; this step really brings out those aromatic flavors! Then whisk in pumpkin puree along with seasonings and chicken stock until smooth.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Allow your sauce to simmer gently so the flavors meld beautifully. Afterward, whisk in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and sage before adding back your cooked meatballs. Let everything sit together for just a few minutes—this is where magic happens!

Serve these scrumptious turkey meatballs nestled in their creamy pumpkin sage sauce over pasta or creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish that warms both body and soul!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Making the perfect turkey meatballs may seem daunting, but with these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends!

Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs absorb moisture better than dried ones, resulting in juicier meatballs. If you’re using store-bought panko, consider adding a bit more milk to maintain the moisture.
Chill the meatball mixture: Allowing the meatball mixture to chill in the freezer for 20-25 minutes helps firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape into perfect balls. This also helps them hold their shape during cooking.
Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is evenly incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs, while gentle mixing keeps them light and tender.
Sear before simmering: Searing the meatballs first creates a beautiful crust and enhances flavor through caramelization. This step not only adds texture but also brings out the savory notes of the turkey and herbs.
Taste as you go: Always taste your pumpkin sage sauce before serving! Adjust seasoning to your preference—whether it needs a bit more salt or a dash of sweetness from maple syrup—ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing when served correctly. Here are some ideas on how to present your turkey meatballs beautifully on the table!

Garnishes

Fried sage leaves: Adding crispy fried sage leaves on top not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also adds a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Extra parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan right before serving elevates both presentation and taste, creating an irresistible finish.

Side Dishes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting backdrop for the rich pumpkin sage sauce, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add a touch of earthy bitterness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pumpkin sauce.
Buttery Noodles: Simple buttered noodles tossed with herbs make for a light and satisfying side that allows the turkey meatballs to shine.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cranberries and pecans adds a crunchy texture and bright flavors, balancing out the richness of the dish.

With these tips for preparation and serving suggestions, your Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on any dinner table! Enjoy this cozy meal as you embrace all things fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste delicious, but it also stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeks ahead.

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled meatballs and sauce in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Ensure the sauce covers the meatballs to keep them moist.

Freezing

Freeze meatballs separately from the sauce for best results.
Wrap each meatball individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
The sauce can be stored in an airtight container. It should last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

For refrigerator leftovers, reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
For frozen meatballs, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or microwave them directly from frozen until hot.
If reheating sauce, do so gently on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe:

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for turkey. The flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious!

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

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta such as gnocchi or linguini, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad for a lighter option.

How long do Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce last in the fridge?

When stored properly, they will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You could use plant-based ground meat alternatives and omit any animal-derived ingredients like parmesan cheese for a vegetarian version.

What’s special about Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

This dish uniquely combines savory turkey with creamy pumpkin and fragrant sage, creating a comforting meal perfect for fall!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce as much as I do! This dish brings warmth and comfort to any table and is sure to impress family and friends. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 6
Category: Main
Method: Baking/Frying
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce, a delightful dish that combines savory turkey with creamy pumpkin and aromatic sage. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a comforting meal that embodies the essence of fall. The tender turkey meatballs simmered in a rich pumpkin sauce not only warm your heart but also fill your home with delightful aromas. Serve it over pasta or alongside mashed potatoes for a complete meal that will surely please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups 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
1 1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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
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

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Instructions

Prepare the meatball mixture by soaking breadcrumbs in milk, then combining with minced onion, garlic, herbs, parmesan, and egg.
Add ground turkey along with salt and pepper; mix gently until just combined.
Chill the mixture for 20-25 minutes before shaping into meatballs.
Sear the meatballs in a skillet until browned on all sides.
For the sauce, sauté onion and garlic; whisk in pumpkin puree, seasonings, and chicken stock until smooth.
Simmer the sauce before adding back cooked meatballs to meld flavors together.