Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that embodies the spirit of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are not just a meal; they’re an experience. When the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of these savory meatballs nestled in a rich pumpkin sauce. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or a family gathering, bringing everyone together over a delicious plate.

What I love most about this recipe is how it captures the essence of autumn with its blend of flavors. The turkey meatballs are juicy and packed with herbs, while the pumpkin sage sauce offers a creamy, slightly sweet finish. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe comes together quickly and requires minimal cleanup.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these flavorful meatballs.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for later use.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of pumpkin and sage creates a delightful fall-inspired sauce.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy these meatballs over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce. Most items you likely already have in your pantry or fridge! 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even plant-based ground meat as an alternative to ground turkey.
• Add vegetables: Mix in finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini into the meatball mixture for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Change up the herbs: If you don’t have fresh sage on hand, feel free to experiment with thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to either the meatball mixture or the sauce if you like a little heat.

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 ingredient list above. This makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable! Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious dish without any last-minute scrambling.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

To prepare your turkey meatballs, add the breadcrumbs to a large bowl and pour over the milk. Let them soak for about 2 to 3 minutes. Now it’s time to mix in those aromatic goodies—add in onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese along with one whole egg and one yolk. Using a fork, mix everything until it’s well combined.

Step 3: Combine with Ground Turkey

Next up is adding the ground turkey! Gently fold in the turkey along with salt and pepper. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender meatballs here! The mixture will be sticky—that’s normal—and it means they’ll be nice and juicy once cooked.

Step 4: Chill Your Meatballs

Using about a two-tablespoon scoop, portion out your turkey mixture into meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined platter. Pop these into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes so they firm up; this step makes them easier to handle when cooking.

Step 5: Roll Them Smooth

Once chilled, lightly wet your palms with water (or oil) and roll each portion into smooth balls. This keeps them from sticking and gives them that perfect round shape that looks great on your plate!

Step 6: Sear Those Meatballs

Brush each meatball with olive oil before cooking. Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat and add about four tablespoons of oil. Once hot, carefully add your first batch of meatballs. Let them sear until browned—about 10 minutes on medium heat—then transfer them onto a clean platter while you cook any remaining batches.

Step 7: Prepare Your Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Now that those delicious meatballs are done cooking, it’s time for our rich pumpkin sage sauce! Wipe out any leftover bits from your skillet (we want all that flavor!) then add ghee (or butter) along with olive oil. Once melted and hot, toss in minced onions and sauté until softened—about 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Stir in Garlic & Seasonings

Add garlic along with Italian seasoning into that fragrant onion mixture. Stir it around until everything becomes aromatic—this step is crucial as it builds layers of flavor!

Step 9: Whisk in Pumpkin & Stock

Next up is whisking in that gorgeous pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until everything is smooth. Allow this magical mix to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes so all those flavors can marry beautifully.

Step 10: Finish Off Your Sauce

Turn off the heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup for sweetness balance, along with chopped sage for freshness. Just wait until you taste how creamy this sauce gets!

Step 11: Combine Meatballs & Sauce

Finally—and my favorite part—add those lovely meatballs back into your pan with all that luscious sauce! Let them sit together for just a few minutes so they warm through again while soaking up all that goodness.

Step 12: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve these savory turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce over whatever side you prefer—gnocchi works wonders here—or simply enjoy them on their own! If you’re feeling fancy or want an extra touch of elegance, top them with fried sage leaves for garnish.

And there you have it—your new go-to comfort meal perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every bite filled with love and warmth this fall season!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Creating the perfect turkey meatballs is all about technique and a little love! Here are some tips to help you achieve mouthwatering results every time.

• Soak Your Breadcrumbs: Allowing the breadcrumbs to soak in milk helps keep the meatballs moist and tender, preventing them from becoming dry during cooking.

• Chill the Mixture: Chilling your meatball mixture before shaping ensures they hold their shape while cooking, making it easier to form perfect rounds without falling apart.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked meatballs, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees they’re cooked through without drying out.

• Sear for Flavor: Browning the meatballs in a hot skillet creates a delightful crust on the outside, adding depth of flavor to your dish that’s simply irresistible.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs instead of tender bites bursting with flavor.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

This dish is not only delicious but also beautiful when plated right! Here are some creative ways to present your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fried Sage Leaves: Adding crispy fried sage leaves on top adds a lovely crunch and enhances the earthy flavors of the dish.

• Fresh Parsley or Chives: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness, making your meal visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs perfectly with the savory pumpkin sauce, soaking up all those delicious flavors.

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the pumpkin sage sauce, adding a satisfying crunch alongside each bite of meatball.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts bring a delightful bitterness that balances well with the sweetness of the pumpkin sauce.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with seasonal veggies offers a light contrast to the hearty meatballs while adding nutrients and texture to your plate.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, you’re sure to create a stunning meal that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to share with others. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish throughout the week. With a few simple steps, you can store and reheat these delicious meatballs and sauce with ease.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the turkey meatballs to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the meatballs and sauce into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep separate if you prefer to preserve the meatballs’ texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, first cool the cooked meatballs completely.
• Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes until heated thoroughly.
• If reheating from frozen, allow extra time or thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Have questions about this recipe? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Absolutely! These turkey meatballs are great for meal prep. You can make them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.

What dishes pair well with Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

These flavorful turkey meatballs are versatile! Serve them over gnocchi, linguini, or even mashed potatoes for a delightful fall meal.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in the sauce?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider using coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute. This will keep your sauce creamy without the dairy!

How do I know when my turkey meatballs are cooked through?

The best way is to check with a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also cut one open; it should be fully cooked inside without any pink remaining.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! This dish beautifully captures the essence of autumn with its rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings. Enjoy every moment spent preparing and sharing this meal with loved ones. Happy cooking!