Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are not just delicious; they bring warmth and comfort to any table. Imagine biting into tender, juicy meatballs enveloped in a creamy pumpkin sauce infused with aromatic sage. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the seasonal flavors without any fuss.

This recipe is special to me because it combines simple ingredients with bold flavors. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual dinner or just want something hearty after a long day, these turkey meatballs will surely impress everyone around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the delightful combination of meatballs and creamy pumpkin sauce.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for an easy weeknight meal.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it over pasta, gnocchi, or even mashed potatoes for variety.
• Comfort food at its best: This dish is rich and satisfying—a true treat during chilly evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that create layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make those savory turkey meatballs and luscious 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
• 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
• (1) 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 quite flexible! Feel free to customize it according to your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If you prefer chicken or beef, both work wonderfully in this recipe!
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a different flavor profile.
• Add some veggies: Spinach or kale can be stirred into the sauce for added nutrition.
• Make it lighter: Use ground turkey breast instead of dark meat for a leaner option.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by gathering and prepping all your turkey meatball ingredients. Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk helps keep the meatballs moist and tender. Next, combine everything in a large bowl using a fork. Mixing gently ensures you don’t overwork the turkey—this keeps them light and fluffy!

Step 2: Chill the Meatballs

Once everything is mixed, scoop out portions using a tablespoon and place them on a platter lined with parchment paper. Chilling them in the freezer for about 20-25 minutes makes them easier to handle while cooking.

Step 3: Sear the Meatballs

After chilling, roll each meatball quickly between your palms to form a nice round shape. Lightly brush them with oil before placing them into a hot skillet. Searing gives them that beautiful golden-brown color while locking in all those savory flavors.

Step 4: Make the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

With your meatballs cooked and set aside, it’s time to whip up that creamy pumpkin sauce! Start by sautéing onions until they’re soft—this sweetness complements the earthy pumpkin beautifully. Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning before adding your pumpkin puree and chicken stock for that velvety texture we all love.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Allow your sauce to simmer gently so all those wonderful flavors meld together. Then whisk in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and more fresh sage. Finally, return your meatballs back into this luscious sauce just before serving. They soak up all that goodness!

Enjoy these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce over your favorite sides like pasta or mashed potatoes—perfectly cozy for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Creating the perfect turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce is all about technique and a few helpful hints. Here are some pro tips to ensure your meal turns out delicious every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can significantly elevate the flavor of your meatballs and sauce, making them more aromatic and vibrant.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so a gentle hand is key to keeping them tender.

• Chill the mixture: Allowing the turkey meatball mixture to chill before shaping helps them hold their shape better during cooking. This step also makes it easier to roll them into perfect balls.

• Sear for flavor: Browning the meatballs before simmering them in the sauce creates a beautiful crust and adds depth of flavor. It’s worth taking that extra time!

• Adjust seasoning: Always taste your sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Personal preferences vary, so this ensures you get the perfect balance of flavors.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Serving turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can be as creative as you want! The rich flavors pair well with various accompaniments, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Garnishes

To add a special touch to your dish, consider these simple garnishes:
* Fried sage leaves: These crispy leaves add a lovely crunch and enhance the sage flavor.
* Extra grated parmesan: A sprinkle of fresh parmesan on top adds richness and an appealing visual element.

Side Dishes

Pair your turkey meatballs with these delightful side dishes to create a complete meal:
* Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the savory sauce beautifully.
* Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious pumpkin sage sauce.
* Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your plate while enhancing the fall flavors of this dish.
* Pasta: Whether it’s penne or fettuccine, serving your meatballs over pasta creates a hearty meal that everyone will love.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delightful turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce! Enjoy every bite of this cozy autumn meal!

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 and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, separate the meatballs from the sauce if you plan to reheat them later.

Freezing

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months.
• The sauce can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken stock or water until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’ve come to the right place!

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

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on turkey meatballs, ground beef or chicken can be used as alternatives. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.

What goes well with Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

These turkey meatballs pair beautifully with pasta like gnocchi or penne, but they also complement mashed potatoes perfectly. Serve them with your favorite side dish!

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

Yes! You can prepare both the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Simply store them separately and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish.

How do I ensure my turkey meatballs stay moist?

Using dark meat turkey and not overmixing your ingredients will help keep them juicy. Additionally, letting them chill before cooking helps maintain their shape during frying.

Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?

For a vegan option, substitute ground turkey with plant-based protein and use almond milk instead of regular milk. You can also skip cheese or opt for a vegan cheese alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to dive into making these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! This recipe brings together cozy fall flavors that are sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether it’s a family dinner or just something special for yourself, I’m excited for you to enjoy this dish as much as I do. Happy cooking!