Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These savory Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are the perfect dish to savor during the fall season. This warming meal is not only comforting but also versatile enough for family dinners, festive gatherings, or cozy nights in. The unique blend of pumpkin and sage elevates traditional meatballs into a delightful experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich taste of pumpkin combined with aromatic sage creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the turkey meatballs.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, this recipe is beginner-friendly and can be whipped up in just over an hour.
• Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with lean protein from turkey and healthy ingredients, this dish provides nourishment without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve these meatballs over pasta, gnocchi, or even mashed potatoes for a deliciously filling meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze beautifully, making them an excellent choice for preparing meals ahead of time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, having the right tools will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet (non-stick or cast iron)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Garlic press
• Parchment or wax paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without spilling, ensuring you have enough space to mix everything thoroughly.
• Skillet (non-stick or cast iron): A good quality skillet helps achieve a perfect sear on your meatballs while preventing sticking.
• Garlic press: Saves time by quickly crushing garlic cloves, enhancing the flavor without extra chopping effort.

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Ingredients

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

• 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
• 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 of your turkey meatball ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

To prepare your turkey meatballs:
* In a large bowl, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them sit for about two to three minutes.
* Then add in the minced onion, crushed garlic, chopped sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, grated parmesan, and both eggs. Use a fork to mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ground Turkey

Add the ground turkey along with salt and pepper:
* Using a light hand, gently combine all ingredients until just mixed. The mixture will be sticky; this is normal.

Step 4: Form Meatballs

Using a two-tablespoon scoop:
* Portion out your turkey mixture onto a parchment-lined platter.
* Place them in the freezer for about twenty to twenty-five minutes to firm up.

Step 5: Roll Into Balls

Once chilled:
* Lightly wet your palms with water or oil.
* Quickly roll each portion into round meatballs.

Step 6: Sear Meatballs

Brush olive oil over each meatball:
* Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in about four tablespoons of oil.
* Add batches of meatballs to sear; reduce heat to medium after browning. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of at least165°F.

Step 7: Prepare Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Gather all sauce ingredients once meatballs are cooked:
* Wipe out the skillet used for frying. Add ghee and olive oil.
* Once melted and hot, sauté minced onion for two to three minutes until softened.

Step 8: Create Sauce Base

Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning:
* Once aromatic, whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth.

Step 9: Simmer Sauce

Allow sauce to simmer gently:
* For two to three minutes to marry flavors. Remove from heat before whisking in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage.

Step 10: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Add cooked meatballs into the sauce:
* Allow them to warm through again—top with fried sage leaves if desired before serving over pasta or other preferred accompaniments.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Serving turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can elevate your meal presentation and enhance the dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of this dish.

With Pasta

• Gnocchi – Soft potato dumplings that pair well with the creamy sauce.
• Linguini – Long, flat pasta that soaks up the pumpkin sage sauce beautifully.
• Penne – Tube-shaped pasta that captures chunks of meatball and sauce in every bite.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad – Fresh greens topped with turkey meatballs and drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Spinach Salad – Sautéed spinach adds a nutritious and flavorful base for your meatballs.

With Grain-Based Sides

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that balances the savory sauce.
• Quinoa – This protein-packed grain offers a nutty flavor and texture that complements the meatballs well.

How to Perfect Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

To achieve mouthwatering turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh herbs and vegetables to enhance the flavors significantly.
• Don’t Overmix – Gently combine ingredients when forming meatballs to keep them tender and juicy.
• Chill Before Cooking – Allowing meatballs to chill firm up makes them easier to handle and helps maintain their shape during cooking.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature – Cook at medium heat to ensure even browning without burning the outsides while keeping the insides moist.
• Taste as You Go – Adjust seasoning in both the meatballs and sauce according to your preference for optimal flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Pairing side dishes with turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy, buttery bread infused with garlic makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Cauliflower Rice – A lighter alternative that complements the richness of the meatballs without overpowering them.
4. Polenta – Creamy polenta provides a deliciously smooth base to balance out the flavors of the dish.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa add visual appeal and extra nutrients.
6. Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini offers a low-carb option that pairs well with the savory sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and tips on how to avoid them:

• Using dry breadcrumbs – Dry breadcrumbs can lead to overly dense meatballs. Always use fresh breadcrumbs or panko for a lighter texture.
• Overmixing the meatball mixture – Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Combine the ingredients gently until just mixed to keep them tender.
• Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the meatballs is crucial for maintaining their shape while cooking. Don’t skip this step; it makes a noticeable difference.
• Not seasoning enough – A lack of seasoning can leave your meatballs bland. Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper before cooking.
• Ignoring internal temperature – Cooking meatballs without checking their internal temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store turkey meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the meatballs in a baking dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes, ensuring they are warmed through.
• Microwave – Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, checking often.
• Stovetop – Warm the sauce on low heat in a skillet and add the meatballs until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce:

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

You can serve these meatballs over pasta like gnocchi or linguini, alongside mashed potatoes, or even with crusty bread for dipping.

Can I make turkey meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the turkey meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How do I store leftovers from Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Are there any substitutions for ground turkey?

You can swap ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or lamb if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How long does it take to cook Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, which includes preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce offer a delicious blend of flavors that celebrate fall. They’re versatile and can be customized with different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a comforting favorite!