Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish to warm your family’s hearts this season, then these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are just the ticket! This recipe has become a favorite in my home, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and sage with juicy turkey meatballs. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table. Plus, with its simple ingredients and straightforward process, you’ll find it easy to whip up anytime you need a comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and sage creates a warm and inviting sauce that pairs perfectly with tender turkey meatballs.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love meatballs, and this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them, making dinner a breeze on busy nights.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve these meatballs over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even on their own for a cozy meal.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You’ll find everything you need to create those savory turkey meatballs and creamy 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 tablespoons chopped, fresh sage
• Fried sage leaves, optional garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey for different flavor profiles.
• Add veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or spinach into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Change the herbs: Try using thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a different aromatic experience.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything prepped and organized makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Trust me; it’s so much easier when you don’t have to scramble at the last minute!

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, add your breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them soak for about 2-3 minutes. This step helps keep your meatballs moist! Then mix in minced onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and both eggs. Use a fork to combine everything well.

Step 3: Combine the Ground Turkey

Now it’s time to gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Be careful not to overmix; you want those meatballs to stay tender! The mixture will be sticky—that’s perfectly fine.

Step 4: Chill the Meatballs

Scoop out portions of the mixture using a tablespoon and place them onto a lined platter. Pop them into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. Chilling makes rolling them into perfect balls much easier!

Step 5: Roll Your Meatballs

After chilling, wet your hands with water (or oil) slightly before rolling each portion into round meatballs. This helps prevent sticking—easy peasy!

Step 6: Sear the Meatballs

Brush each meatball lightly with olive oil. Heat up your skillet over medium-high heat with about four tablespoons of oil. Once hot, add in meatballs in batches so they don’t overcrowd. Sear until browned all around; this adds great flavor!

Step 7: Cook Through

Once browned on all sides (about 10 minutes total), use a clean platter to set aside cooked meatballs while you repeat with remaining batches.

Step 8: Prepare Your Sauce Ingredients

While those delicious meatballs are resting, gather all of your sauce ingredients in one spot so they’re ready when you are!

Step 9: Sauté Onions

Wipe out any excess oil from your skillet used for frying meatballs. Add ghee (or butter) along with olive oil until melted. Sauté minced onion until softened—this usually takes about two to three minutes—and brings out that sweet flavor!

Step 10: Create Your Pumpkin Sauce

Stir in garlic alongside Italian seasoning until fragrant before whisking in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until everything is smooth.

Step 11: Simmer & Finish Your Sauce

Let your sauce gently simmer for just a few minutes before turning off heat. Whisk in grated parmesan cheese along with heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage—all these flavors blend wonderfully together!

Step 12: Combine & Serve

Finally, toss those beautiful turkey meatballs back into your sauce just long enough to warm through again. If you’d like an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fried sage leaves before serving over gnocchi or whatever side you prefer!

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

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Making turkey meatballs is a delightful process, and with these tips, you’ll achieve the best results!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh sage and parsley not only enhance flavor but also add a vibrant touch to your dish. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh herbs truly elevate the taste.

• Chill the meatballs: Giving the formed meatballs time in the freezer helps them hold their shape during cooking. This prevents them from falling apart and ensures they cook evenly.

• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until combined. Overworking the meat can lead to tough meatballs, while a gentle hand keeps them tender and juicy.

• Taste as you go: Before cooking all of your meatballs, consider frying a small test one to taste for seasoning. This way, you can adjust salt or spices to your preference before committing to the whole batch.

• Experiment with accompaniments: While this recipe suggests certain pastas or potatoes, feel free to explore different grains like quinoa or farro for a unique twist that complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Presenting your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce creatively can turn this comforting meal into an eye-catching feast. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fried sage leaves: A few crispy fried sage leaves on top add an aromatic crunch that beautifully contrasts with the creamy sauce.
• Chopped parsley: Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled over the dish brightens up the colors and adds freshness that balances out the richness of the sauce.
• Grated parmesan: A light dusting of parmesan cheese right before serving enhances flavor and gives a lovely presentation.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, making it an irresistible side that everyone loves.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add a nutritious and colorful touch to your meal while complementing the fall flavors.
• Creamy polenta: The buttery texture of creamy polenta pairs wonderfully with both the turkey meatballs and sauce, creating a cozy comfort food experience.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs and rich sauce.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll impress friends and family with your culinary skills while enjoying every bite of this delicious meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious meatballs.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the meatballs and sauce into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Have questions about making these turkey meatballs? Let’s dive into some common inquiries!

Can I use ground turkey breast instead of dark meat for this recipe?

While you can use ground turkey breast, it may result in drier meatballs. Dark meat (93/7 ratio) provides moisture and flavor that complements the pumpkin sage sauce beautifully.

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

The internal temperature of the turkey meatballs should reach 165°F (75°C). A kitchen thermometer is a great tool to ensure they’re cooked perfectly!

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

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

Can I use fresh sage instead of dried sage in this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh sage adds a vibrant flavor. Use about three times more fresh sage than dried, as fresh herbs are less concentrated.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating these warm and inviting Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce as much as I do! This recipe brings together cozy flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a comforting family dinner or meal prepping for busy weekdays, these meatballs will surely delight everyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!