Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are the perfect dish for cozy nights and festive gatherings. With their rich flavors and comforting textures, they make a delightful meal suitable for various occasions. The combination of turkey meatballs and creamy pumpkin sage sauce not only satisfies but also brings the essence of fall right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The savory turkey meatballs paired with creamy pumpkin sage sauce create an irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these meatballs over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes, allowing for endless meal variations.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish fits right in.
• Healthy Choice: Made with lean ground turkey and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet or Platter
• Heavy Bottom Skillet
• Garlic Press
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients without spilling, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Heavy Bottom Skillet: This helps achieve an even cook on the meatballs while preventing sticking and burning.
• Garlic Press: Saves time by quickly mincing garlic cloves, releasing their full flavor effortlessly.

Ingredients

These savory and juicy turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce are a rich, delicious and warming meal brimming with fall flavors!

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

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Meatball Mixture

Begin by gathering all your turkey meatball ingredients according to the ingredient list above.

Step 2: Soak Breadcrumbs

In a large bowl, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them sit for about 2-3 minutes until soaked.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

Add in the minced onion, pressed garlic, chopped sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, grated parmesan cheese, whole egg plus yolk. Mix well with a fork until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine with Ground Turkey

Gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper until just combined. The mixture will be sticky; this is normal.

Step 5: Form Meatballs

Using a scoop (about 2 tablespoons), portion out the meat mixture onto a parchment-lined platter. Place them in the freezer for about 20-25 minutes to firm up.

Step 6: Roll into Shape

Once chilled, lightly wet your palms with water or oil. Roll each portion into round meatballs.

Step 7: Brown the Meatballs

Brush olive oil over each meatball. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add around four tablespoons of oil. Sear meatballs until browned on all sides; about 10 minutes until cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F). Set aside on a clean platter.

Step 8: Prepare Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Gather all ingredients needed for your pumpkin sage sauce as listed above.

Step 9: Cook Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet used for cooking meatballs, wipe it clean then add ghee/butter and olive oil. Once melted and hot, sauté minced onion for about 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 10: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in pressed garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant. Then whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth.

Step 11: Simmer Sauce

Allow sauce to gently simmer for about 2-3 minutes so flavors meld together. Turn off heat then whisk in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage.

Step 12: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Carefully add cooked meatballs into the sauce letting them warm through again for a few minutes. Serve topped with fried sage leaves if desired alongside gnocchi or your favorite pasta dish!

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce are versatile and delicious, making them perfect for various occasions. You can serve them in numerous ways to please your guests and family.

On a Bed of Pasta

• Linguini or Penne: Serve the meatballs over freshly cooked pasta for a classic Italian touch.
• Gnocchi: Pair with soft gnocchi for a comforting, hearty meal.
• Bow Tie Pasta: The unique shape captures the sauce wonderfully, adding a fun twist.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Classic Mashed Potatoes: The rich sauce complements buttery mashed potatoes perfectly.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For an extra kick, mix roasted garlic into your mashed potatoes.

As an Appetizer

• Meatball Sliders: Serve smaller meatballs on mini buns with sauce for a delightful finger food option.
• Skewers: Thread meatballs onto skewers for easy serving at parties.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy White Rice: Absorbs the savory pumpkin sage sauce beautifully.
• Quinoa: A healthy alternative that adds a nutty flavor to the dish.

How to Perfect Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Creating the perfect turkey meatballs requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like sage and parsley will elevate the flavor of your meatballs significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients; overmixing may lead to tough meatballs.
• Chill Before Cooking: Chilling the meatballs helps maintain their shape during cooking.
• Sear for Flavor: Browning the meatballs adds depth and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Simmer Gently: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently helps blend flavors without breaking down ingredients.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to preference.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Complementing your turkey meatballs with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce; simply toast slices with garlic butter.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition.
3. Caesar Salad – A fresh salad balances out the richness of the meatballs and sauce.
4. Steamed Green Beans – Lightly seasoned green beans offer a crunchy contrast to tender meatballs.
5. Buttery Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn pairs well with savory flavors, bringing summer vibes year-round.
6. Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad with herbs provides a refreshing side that complements the dish well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience making turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping the Soaking Step – Not letting the breadcrumbs soak in milk can lead to dry meatballs. Ensure you allow them to sit for 2-3 minutes for a moist texture.
• Overmixing the Meatball Mixture – Mixing too vigorously can make meatballs tough. Gently combine ingredients just until mixed for tender meatballs.
• Not Chilling the Meatballs – Skipping the chilling step can result in misshaped meatballs during cooking. Chill them for 20-25 minutes for easier handling.
• Cooking at Too High of Heat – Cooking on high heat may cause the outside to burn while leaving the inside undercooked. Start with medium-high heat and adjust as needed.
• Forgetting to Taste Your Sauce – Not seasoning your sauce can lead to bland results. Always taste and adjust flavors before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store turkey meatballs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Place cooled turkey meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warmed.
• Stovetop – Simmer gently in sauce over low heat until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce:

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken can be substituted easily without altering the overall flavor of the dish.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

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

Consider serving with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make turkey meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them ahead of time, then simply reheat before serving.

How can I customize the pumpkin sage sauce?

Feel free to add additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor or adjust sweetness with more maple syrup if desired.

Final Thoughts

Turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce offer a warm and delightful meal that celebrates fall flavors. This recipe is versatile; you can adjust ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Give it a try, and enjoy customizing it to your taste!

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Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

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Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with these Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, this dish features savory turkey meatballs enveloped in a creamy pumpkin sage sauce that evokes the essence of autumn. Easy to prepare and versatile for any occasion, these meatballs can be served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, making them a delightful choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Enjoy a hearty meal that’s guilt-free yet full of flavor!

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6 (approximately 18 meatballs) 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups 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
• 1 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 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
• 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

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add minced onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, egg, and mix well.
3. Gently fold in ground turkey with salt and pepper until combined.
4. Form into meatballs and chill for 20-25 minutes.
5. Brown meatballs in a skillet until cooked through.
6. Prepare pumpkin sage sauce by sautéing onion and garlic, then mixing in pumpkin puree and chicken stock.
7. Combine meatballs with the sauce and simmer briefly before serving.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs (about 150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 110mg