Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish to bring some cozy vibes into your home, then these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are just what you need! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines savory turkey meatballs with a creamy, pumpkin-infused sauce that is perfect for fall. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a family dinner or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please everyone.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its rich flavors but also in its simplicity. It’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights as well as festive occasions. Trust me, once you taste these delightful meatballs enveloped in that luscious pumpkin sage sauce, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of turkey meatballs and pumpkin sage sauce creates a delightful harmony that bursts with fall flavors.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these tender meatballs, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have this hearty dish ready in no time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for these turkey meatballs. They come together effortlessly to create something truly special. 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
• 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: Mix in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute ground turkey with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty meatless option.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary if you want to switch things up!

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, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them soak for about 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps keep your meatballs moist and tender!

Step 2: Mix in Flavorful Ingredients

Next, add the minced onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, and both eggs into the bowl. Use a fork to mix everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture will be sticky—that’s perfectly normal!

Step 3: Incorporate Ground Turkey

Gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Be careful not to overmix; you want those meatballs light and airy! Once combined, use a scoop to portion out your mixture onto a lined platter.

Step 4: Chill Your Meatballs

Pop those formed meatballs into the freezer for about 20-25 minutes. Chilling them makes them easier to handle when it comes time to cook.

Step 5: Shape Each Meatball

After chilling, wet your hands slightly with water or oil. Quickly roll each portion into round balls—this helps create that perfect shape we all love!

Step 6: Sear Your Meatballs

Brush olive oil over each meatball and heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches so they don’t overcrowd. Sear until browned all around—about 10 minutes total until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Prepare Your Pumpkin Sauce

Wipe out your skillet after cooking the meatballs and melt ghee (or butter) with some olive oil. Add minced onion and sauté until softened—this really brings out their sweet flavor!

Step 8: Stir in Garlic and Seasonings

Add garlic and Italian seasoning; once fragrant, whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth. Allow this beautiful mixture to simmer gently for about 3 minutes so all those flavors can meld together.

Step 9: Finish Your Sauce

Turn off the heat and whisk in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage until creamy.

Step 10: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Finally, nestle those lovely turkey meatballs back into the sauce allowing them to warm through while soaking up all that goodness.

Top with fried sage leaves if using before serving these delectable turkey meatballs with pumpkin sage sauce over your favorite side like gnocchi or mashed potatoes. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Making turkey meatballs can be a breeze with just a few handy tips to elevate your dish and ensure perfect results every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance flavor significantly, making your meatballs and sauce taste vibrant and aromatic. Opt for fresh sage and parsley whenever possible.

• Chill the Meatballs: Chilling the formed meatballs before cooking helps them maintain their shape and prevents them from falling apart during frying. This is a simple step that ensures perfectly round and juicy meatballs.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the turkey and other ingredients, mix gently just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs; you want them tender and moist.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Every palate is different! Taste your mixture (before adding raw eggs) and adjust seasoning as needed to ensure your meatballs are flavorful.

• Experiment with Sides: While this dish shines on its own, consider trying different accompaniments to keep things exciting. Pair it with various pasta shapes or even grains like quinoa for a delightful meal.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Elevate your dining experience by serving these scrumptious turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce with thoughtful presentation and complementary sides that highlight the dish’s comforting flavors.

Garnishes

• Fried Sage Leaves: These add a beautiful touch of elegance while enhancing the sage flavor of the dish.
• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top adds creaminess and richness that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin sauce.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A dash of green not only brightens up the plate visually but also offers a fresh burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture complements the savory sauce perfectly, making every bite satisfying.
• Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery slice of garlic bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover pumpkin sage sauce—don’t let it go to waste!
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances well with the sweetness of the pumpkin, creating a lovely contrast on your plate.
• Quinoa Pilaf: For a healthier alternative, quinoa pilaf offers a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the meatballs while providing extra protein.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress family or guests with your delicious Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! Enjoy this cozy dish that captures all the warmth of autumn flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy this cozy dish any day of the week. Whether you’re planning for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, these meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored with ease.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover turkey meatballs and sauce in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the meatballs are fully cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked meatballs and sauce to cool completely.
• Transfer them into a freezer-safe container or freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for future reference!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat in increments of 1 minute, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use chicken instead of turkey for the meatballs?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground chicken for ground turkey in this recipe, keeping all other ingredients the same.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

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

Absolutely! You can make both the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Follow the storing instructions above to keep everything fresh.

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

These meatballs pair beautifully with gnocchi, linguini, penne, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Your favorite side will elevate this dish even more!

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce as much as I do! This recipe embodies everything comforting about fall – rich flavors and satisfying textures that warm the soul. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful dish, and savor every bite together. Happy cooking!