Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce are a delightful dish perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. Rich in flavor and comfort, they combine tender turkey meatballs with a creamy pumpkin sauce infused with aromatic sage. This recipe showcases the wonderful essence of fall and is sure to impress your family and friends at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: The combination of savory turkey meatballs and creamy pumpkin sage sauce creates a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these meatballs over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a meal that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well, making it ideal for batch cooking or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday feast, these turkey meatballs are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment will help you achieve the best results!

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Skillet (non-stick or cast iron): A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the meatballs without sticking.
• Garlic press: This tool makes it easy to incorporate fresh garlic into your dishes quickly, enhancing 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
• 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

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering and prepping all of your turkey meatball ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Meatballs

• In a large bowl, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them sit for 2 to 3 minutes.
• Add in the onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, whole egg plus yolk. Using a fork, mix until thoroughly combined.
• Gently fold in ground turkey along with salt and pepper until just combined. The mixture will be sticky; this is normal.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

• Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, portion out turkey meatballs onto parchment paper-lined platter.
• Place them in the freezer to chill for 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

• Lightly wet your palms with water or oil. Roll each chilled meatball between your palms until round.
• Brush olive oil over each meatball. Heat skillet over medium-high heat; drizzle in about 4 tablespoons of oil.
• Add batches of turkey meatballs; sear them briefly before reducing heat to medium-low. Cook until browned on all sides—about 10 minutes—until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Place cooked meatballs on a clean platter.

Step 5: Make the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• In the same skillet used for frying meatballs, wipe out excess grease. Add ghee (or butter) along with olive oil until melted.
• Sauté minced onion for about 2–3 minutes until softened; add garlic and Italian seasoning.
• Whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

• Allow sauce to simmer gently for about 2–3 minutes. Then whisk in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage.
• Carefully add cooked meatballs back into sauce; let sit briefly just to warm through again.

Serve these delightful turkey meatballs with pumpkin sage sauce over gnocchi or your favorite pasta! Enjoy!

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These savory turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can be enjoyed in various ways. Elevate your dining experience by pairing them with different accompaniments that complement their rich flavors.

Over Pasta

• Gnocchi: Soft and pillowy gnocchi soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Linguini: Long strands of linguini provide a delightful texture alongside the meatballs.
• Penne: The tube shape of penne captures the sauce, making every bite flavorful.

On a Bed of Vegetables

• Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative that adds freshness and crunch.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting base for the meatballs and sauce.

In a Bowl

• Rice: Serve over fluffy rice to soak up the delicious pumpkin sage sauce.
• Quinoa: A nutty, protein-packed option that complements the dish’s richness.

How to Perfect Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Achieving the ideal turkey meatballs can elevate your dish to a whole new level. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality ground turkey enhance flavor significantly.
• Chill Your Mixture: Chilling the meatball mixture helps them hold their shape while cooking.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
• Sear for Flavor: Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce creates a depth of flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Allowing the meatballs to simmer in the sauce helps meld all flavors together without toughening them.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Pairing side dishes with turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can enhance your meal. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a sweet balance to the dish.
2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
3. Cauliflower Mash: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash adds creaminess without excess carbs.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and sea salt, these add crunch and flavor contrast.
5. Side Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs and sauce.
6. Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as an excellent base, absorbing flavors from both the meatballs and sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the meatballs before cooking can lead to them falling apart. Always freeze them for 20-25 minutes to firm up.
• Overmixing the meatball mixture: Overmixing can result in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for tender meatballs.
• Using the wrong type of breadcrumbs: Choosing the wrong breadcrumbs can affect texture. Opt for fresh or panko breadcrumbs for the best results.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste and adjust salt and spices before cooking.
• Not letting the sauce simmer long enough: Skipping the simmering step can prevent flavors from developing. Let your sauce simmer gently to enhance taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Freeze turkey meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Simmer gently over low heat in a pan until warmed, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

You can easily substitute ground beef for ground turkey if that’s your preference. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I customize the sauce?

Feel free to add extra spices or herbs such as thyme or rosemary to personalize the pumpkin sage sauce further!

What should I serve with turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta like gnocchi or linguini, mashed potatoes, or even rice!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I store leftover pumpkin sage sauce?

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce offer a delicious blend of flavors and comfort food appeal. They’re versatile enough to serve over various bases, allowing you to customize them according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its warm, inviting taste!