Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These savory and juicy Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This comforting meal is ideal for cozy family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a special occasion. With its rich pumpkin sauce and aromatic sage, it brings warmth and flavor to your table, making it a standout choice for any autumn feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of turkey meatballs and creamy pumpkin sage sauce creates a dish packed with delicious taste.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe features simple steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these meatballs over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even on their own as an appetizer.
• Perfect for Fall: Embrace the season with warming flavors that highlight pumpkin and sage.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and ensure you’re ready. Having everything prepped will make this recipe smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A heavy-bottom skillet provides even heat distribution for perfectly browned meatballs.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows ample space to mix ingredients without mess.
• Garlic Press: Using a garlic press ensures you get maximum flavor from your garlic cloves with minimal effort.

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 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: Make the Meatball Mixture

To prepare your turkey meatballs:
In a large bowl, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them sit for about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add in the onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan, and whole egg plus yolk. Mix thoroughly with a fork until combined.

Step 3: Combine Turkey

Add the ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Gently combine all ingredients just until well mixed; the mixture will be sticky.

Step 4: Form Meatballs

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

Step 5: Roll Meatballs

Once chilled, lightly wet your palms with water or oil. Quickly roll each meatball between your palms to form round shapes.

Step 6: Cook Meatballs

Brush olive oil over each meatball. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with about 4 tablespoons of oil. Add meatballs in batches to sear until browned on all sides for about 10 minutes, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Prepare Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Wipe out the skillet used for frying. Add ghee or butter along with oil:
Saute minced onion for about 2 to 3 minutes, until softened.
Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning; whisk in pumpkin puree along with salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth.

Step 8: Finish Sauce

Allow sauce to gently simmer for 2 to3 minutes, then whisk in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage.

Step 9: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Add cooked meatballs into the sauce. Let them sit for a few minutes just to warm them through again. Serve with fried sage leaves as garnish if desired!

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce make a delicious and versatile dish. They pair wonderfully with various sides, allowing you to create a well-rounded meal that highlights the flavors of fall.

With Pasta

• Gnocchi – Soft, pillowy gnocchi provides a delightful base that absorbs the rich sauce beautifully.
• Linguini – This long, flat pasta complements the texture of the meatballs and allows for easy twirling.
• Penne – The tubular shape of penne captures the sauce, enhancing every bite with flavor.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The buttery smoothness adds comfort and balances the savory sauce perfectly.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs and sauce.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Crunchy, garlic-infused bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover pumpkin sage sauce.

As an Appetizer

• Mini Meatball Skewers – Serve small portions on toothpicks for easy snacking at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

To make your turkey meatballs truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips for preparation and cooking techniques.

• Use dark meat turkey – Ground dark meat yields juicier meatballs compared to lean turkey.
• Chill before cooking – Chilling the formed meatballs helps them hold their shape during frying.
• Don’t overmix – Gently combine ingredients to keep the meatballs tender; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste the mixture before forming meatballs; adjust salt and herbs as desired for optimal flavor.
• Sear then simmer – Searing first adds depth of flavor; simmering in the sauce ensures they stay moist and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Pairing side dishes with turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce enhances your meal experience. Consider these tasty options for a complete dinner.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that complements the dish well.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These slightly bitter veggies balance out the sweetness of the pumpkin sauce when roasted until crispy.
3. Sautéed Spinach – Lightly sautéed spinach adds color and nutrients while providing a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
4. Butternut Squash Risotto – The creamy texture and nutty flavor of risotto enhance the fall vibe of this meal.
5. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad with cranberries and nuts adds crunch and sweetness to your plate.
6. Cranberry Sauce – A tangy cranberry sauce offers a refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors of the turkey meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping Ingredient Prep – Failing to prepare your ingredients before starting can lead to confusion and delays. Measure and chop everything in advance for a smoother cooking experience.
• Overmixing the Meatball Mixture – Mixing too much can make meatballs tough. Combine the ingredients just until they are mixed, ensuring a tender texture.
• Not Freezing Before Cooking – If you skip chilling the meatballs, they may fall apart while cooking. Always chill them for at least 20 minutes to help them hold their shape.
• Ignoring Proper Cooking Temperature – Cooking at too high of a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium or medium-low heat for even cooking.
• Neglecting Sauce Seasoning – Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland sauce. Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat meatballs in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken stock or water. Cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make turkey meatballs moist?

Moisture comes from using fresh breadcrumbs and not overmixing the ground turkey. Adding milk helps keep them juicy as well.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! Make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling for the best flavor in your sauce.

What sides pair well with turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce?

These meatballs go great with pasta like gnocchi or linguini, mashed potatoes, or even served over rice.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce store well and can be made ahead of time for easy meals during the week.

Can I substitute the ground turkey?

You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if desired, but it may change the flavor slightly.

Final Thoughts

Turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce offer a delightful combination of flavors perfect for any fall meal. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting the herbs used. Don’t hesitate to try this comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table!