Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming meal that celebrates the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are a delightful dish that combines juicy turkey meatballs with a creamy pumpkin sauce enriched by fresh sage. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas and brings everyone to the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What I love most about this dish is how simple it is to prepare yet incredibly satisfying. The combination of turkey and pumpkin creates a comforting meal that is both nutritious and delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal ingredients into your cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for those nights when time is short.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love these tender meatballs smothered in rich sauce!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for future meals.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, sage, and Italian spices creates a warm, inviting dish that feels like home.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even roasted veggies for an adaptable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. They come together beautifully to create a flavorful dish that’s sure to please.

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 a few ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the meatball mixture for a spicy kick!
• Make it veggie-friendly: Substitute ground turkey with lentils or quinoa for a plant-based option.
• Change up the herbs: Try using thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a different twist on flavor.

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 the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for about 2-3 minutes; this step helps keep your meatballs moist. Then add in the minced onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan, and both egg components. Mix everything together thoroughly with a fork until combined.

Step 2: Combine with Ground Turkey

Next, gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. It’s important not to overmix; just combine everything until it’s well blended. The mixture will feel sticky—that’s just right!

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Using a scoop or spoon, portion out the mixture into balls about two tablespoons in size. Place them on a lined platter and pop them in the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. Chilling helps firm them up so they hold their shape while cooking.

Step 4: Roll and Sear Meatballs

Once chilled, wet your hands slightly and roll each portion into smooth balls. Brush each one lightly with olive oil before placing them in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Searing will give them that lovely golden brown crust we all adore!

Step 5: Cook Thoroughly

Cook the meatballs on all sides until browned and fully cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, set them aside on a clean platter while you prepare the sauce.

Step 6: Make the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out!), melt ghee or butter along with olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced onion until softened—this adds sweetness! Stir in crushed garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant before whisking in pumpkin puree with chicken stock until smooth.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Let your sauce simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes before whisking in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage. Finally, add those beautiful meatballs back into the sauce so they can warm up together.

Now you’re ready to serve! Enjoy these savory turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce over gnocchi or any pasta you love—all while soaking up those delicious fall flavors!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Making turkey meatballs can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll create a dish that’s not just delicious but also full of flavor!

• Use fresh herbs: Incorporating fresh sage and parsley will elevate the flavor profile of your meatballs. Fresh herbs bring brightness and depth that dried herbs can’t replicate.
• Chill the meatballs: Allowing the meatballs to chill in the freezer before cooking helps them hold their shape. This step prevents them from falling apart during frying and ensures a perfect texture.
• Avoid overmixing: When combining ingredients for the meatballs, mix gently. Overmixing can result in dense meatballs instead of light and tender ones.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t hesitate to taste the mixture before forming the meatballs. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Experiment with sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Feel free to get creative with your side dishes to make your meal even more enjoyable!

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Serving turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce is all about presentation and creating a comforting meal that warms both the heart and the belly. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fried sage leaves: These crispy leaves add an elegant touch and an extra layer of sage flavor to your dish.
• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top provides a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the plate.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Polenta: The smooth, buttery texture of polenta complements the savory meatballs perfectly, making each bite indulgent.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a classic comfort food pairing that balances out the rich pumpkin sauce.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts contrasts beautifully with the sweet pumpkin sauce, adding an interesting flavor dimension.
• Pasta: Whether it’s linguine or penne, serving your turkey meatballs over pasta allows you to soak up all that delicious pumpkin sage sauce for a satisfying meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce will be a hit at any dinner table! Enjoy this cozy dish with family or friends any night of the week!

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, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some helpful tips for storing your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture.
• Keep meatballs separate from the sauce if you prefer to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Allow cooked meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to the pot if necessary.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power until heated through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey for these meatballs?

Yes! While this recipe features turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, you can substitute ground beef or chicken as per your preference.

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

These flavorful turkey meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta like gnocchi or penne, or even creamy mashed potatoes.

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

You can reduce calories by using low-fat dairy options and increasing the pumpkin puree for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

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

Absolutely! The dish is excellent for meal prep; you can make it in advance and store leftovers as instructed above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! It’s a cozy dish that’s perfect for fall evenings and sure to bring warmth to your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try out this comforting recipe—it’s packed with flavor and love. Happy cooking!