Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that perfectly captures the essence of autumn, look no further than these delightful Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you! The combination of tender turkey meatballs enveloped in a creamy pumpkin sage sauce is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What makes this dish even more special is how versatile it is. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, gnocchi, or even mashed potatoes, it’s bound to impress your loved ones. Plus, the vibrant colors and rich flavors are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the juicy turkey meatballs paired with creamy pumpkin sauce.
• Comfort Food Delight: Perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for an easy weeknight dinner!
• Seasonal Flavors: Embrace fall with the cozy taste of pumpkin and fragrant sage in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this comforting dish. Let’s gather everything we need for our Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce!

For the 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
• Olive oil or avocado oil, for brushing over top and lightly frying

For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• 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! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or lean beef if you prefer a different protein option.
• Add veggies: Mix some finely grated zucchini or carrots into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick!
• Gluten-free option: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

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 fresh breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for about 2-3 minutes; this step helps keep the meatballs moist. Next, add in your minced onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and both eggs. Using a fork, mix everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Turkey and Seasoning

Now it’s time to add in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spatula until just combined. Remember not to overmix; otherwise, your meatballs could turn out tough!

Step 3: Chill the Meatballs

Using a two-tablespoon scoop, portion out your turkey mixture into balls and place them on a lined platter. Pop them in the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. Chilling helps firm them up so they won’t fall apart when cooking.

Step 4: Sear Those Meatballs

Once chilled, lightly wet your palms with water (or oil) before rolling each portion into smooth balls. Brush olive oil over each one before heating up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add some more oil into the skillet and let it get hot before searing your meatballs until they’re golden brown all around—this adds such great flavor!

Step 5: Make Your Pumpkin Sage Sauce

After removing all meatballs from the skillet and setting them aside on a clean platter, wipe out any leftover bits from cooking. Then add ghee (or butter) along with olive oil to the skillet. Once melted and hot, toss in minced onion and sauté until softened—about 2-3 minutes brings out their sweetness.

Step 6: Whisk In Flavorful Ingredients

Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant before whisking in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth. Let this sauce gently simmer so those lovely flavors can marry together beautifully.

Step 7: Final Touches

After simmering for a few minutes off heat, whisk in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream for richness, maple syrup for balance sweetness, and chopped sage for freshness! Finally, nestle those delicious turkey meatballs back into this amazing sauce to warm through.

Serve these hearty turkey meatballs swimming in their rich pumpkin sage sauce over pasta or creamy mashed potatoes—perfect comfort food that’s sure to delight everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Making turkey meatballs can be a delightful experience if you follow these handy tips!

• Use fresh breadcrumbs – Fresh breadcrumbs provide better moisture retention than dried ones, leading to juicier meatballs that won’t dry out during cooking.

• Chill the meatball mixture – Allowing the meatball mixture to chill before shaping helps them hold their shape and reduces sticking, making it easier to roll and cook them perfectly.

• Don’t overmix – Gently mixing the ingredients ensures a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Sear for flavor – Browning the meatballs enhances their flavor through caramelization. This step not only adds depth but also creates a beautiful color on the outside.

• Whisk in cream at the end – Adding heavy cream to the sauce just before serving keeps it luxuriously smooth and creamy. It also prevents curdling that can occur with prolonged heat.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Presenting your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can be as delightful as making them! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fried sage leaves – Adding crispy fried sage leaves on top not only looks beautiful but also enhances the aroma and flavor of the dish.
• Extra parmesan cheese – A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese brings a rich, savory note that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes – The buttery richness of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin sage sauce, creating a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.
• Garlic bread – Crunchy garlic bread serves as an excellent vehicle for scooping up both meatballs and sauce, adding a satisfying crunch alongside your meal.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts – The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the pumpkin sauce while adding a nutritious touch.
• Quinoa salad with cranberries and nuts – This refreshing side provides a nutty crunch and a hint of sweetness from dried cranberries, complementing the flavors of the meatballs without overwhelming them.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce will not only taste fantastic but also look like they belong in a fine dining restaurant! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or save some for later. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover turkey meatballs in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the pumpkin sage sauce is separated or mixed; either way, it will retain its flavor.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen meatballs to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, place the meatballs in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of chicken stock or water to keep them moist.
• Cover and heat gently until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• If reheating leftovers from the fridge, they can be microwaved for about 2-3 minutes or heated on the stovetop until hot.

FAQs

Got questions about this comforting dish? Here are some common ones!

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

Absolutely! Ground chicken works beautifully in this Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.

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

To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute grated parmesan with nutritional yeast and use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative instead of heavy cream in the sauce.

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

These meatballs pair wonderfully with gnocchi, pasta like linguini or penne, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sides!

Can I add more vegetables to the sauce?

Definitely! Adding sautéed spinach, kale, or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition without compromising the deliciousness of your Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep as it stores well and tastes great reheated. You can enjoy it throughout the week or freeze portions for later!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! This dish captures all those cozy autumn flavors that warm your heart and home. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or just treating yourself, it’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your culinary adventures with me—happy cooking!