Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are just what you need! This dish is one of my fall favorites, combining tender turkey meatballs with a creamy pumpkin sauce that’s infused with the earthy aroma of sage. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying, or for family gatherings where everyone can gather around the table and enjoy a delicious meal together.

What makes this recipe so special is how it embraces the flavors of autumn. The combination of savory turkey, rich pumpkin, and fragrant sage creates a delightful harmony that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly.
• Family-friendly: Kids will love the juicy meatballs while parents appreciate the nutritious elements.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Deliciously comforting: The creamy pumpkin sage sauce adds a warm hug to every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up these delightful turkey meatballs. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store!

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 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 switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Mix in some finely chopped spinach or shredded carrots into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.
• Change the sauce: Instead of pumpkin puree, use butternut squash puree or even a tomato-based sauce if you prefer.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat in both the meatballs and sauce.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by gathering all your turkey meatball ingredients. Start by adding the breadcrumbs into a large bowl. Pour over the milk and let them soak for about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential as it helps keep your meatballs moist and tender. Then mix in the onions, garlic, herbs, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, egg, and yolk until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Combine with Ground Turkey

Next, gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Be careful not to overwork the mixture; we want those meatballs light and fluffy! At this point, you might notice that your mixture is quite sticky—that’s perfectly fine!

Step 3: Chill for Easy Handling

Using a scoop, portion out your meatballs onto a lined platter and pop them into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. Chilling helps firm them up so they hold their shape while cooking.

Step 4: Shape and Cook Meatballs

Once chilled, wet your hands slightly to help roll each portion into balls without sticking. Brush them lightly with olive oil before searing them in a hot skillet until golden brown on all sides—this adds such great flavor!

Step 5: Prepare the Pumpkin Sauce

After cooking your meatballs, wipe out any leftover bits from the skillet and add ghee (or butter) along with olive oil. Sauté onions until they soften before adding garlic and Italian seasoning; this releases all those lovely flavors we want in our sauce.

Step 6: Create that Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Whisk in your pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until everything is smooth. Let it simmer gently to marry those beautiful flavors together.

Step 7: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Turn off the heat and stir in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage. Then gently add your cooked meatballs back into this luscious sauce so they can soak up all that goodness.

Now you’re ready to serve these delightful turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce over your favorite accompaniments like pasta or mashed potatoes! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Making turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you create the perfect dish every time!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh sage and parsley bring vibrant flavors that dried herbs simply can’t match. They elevate the taste of your meatballs and sauce, making them more aromatic and delicious.

• Chill the meatballs: Chilling your formed meatballs in the freezer before cooking helps them hold their shape during frying. This step prevents them from falling apart and ensures even cooking.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients for your meatballs, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough rather than tender and juicy.

• Brown them well: Searing the meatballs gives them a beautiful golden-brown crust, adding depth of flavor. Ensure your skillet is hot enough to achieve this without overcrowding the pan.

• Taste as you go: Always taste your sauce for seasoning before adding the meatballs. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Presenting turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can be both simple and elegant! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine on any table.

Garnishes

• Fried sage leaves: These add a lovely crunch and an intense sage flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives: A sprinkle of these fresh herbs adds color and freshness to your plate, enhancing its visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory sauce, making every bite comforting.
• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful way to soak up every drop of that luscious pumpkin sage sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds a nutritious touch while providing a beautiful array of colors on your plate.
• Pasta: Whether it’s gnocchi, linguini, or penne, pasta serves as a perfect base to carry those flavorful turkey meatballs and sauce, making each meal feel complete.

Enjoy crafting this cozy autumn dish that warms both heart and home!

Make Ahead and Storage

These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce are perfect for meal prep! They can be made ahead of time and stored for quick weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover turkey meatballs and pumpkin sage sauce in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the mixture is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen solid, transfer them 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 skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them; cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground chicken will work well as a substitute while maintaining a similar flavor profile.

How do I make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

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

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately until you’re ready to serve.

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

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta like gnocchi or linguini, but also complement mashed potatoes or even rice!

Can I add vegetables to the pumpkin sage sauce?

Certainly! Feel free to add sautéed spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor in your sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making these turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce as I do! This recipe captures the essence of fall with its comforting flavors and delightful aroma. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings at home. Enjoy trying this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any tweaks you make along the way. Happy cooking!