Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are a delightful dish perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. Combining juicy turkey meatballs with a creamy pumpkin sage sauce creates a rich and warming meal that celebrates the flavors of fall. This recipe is not only delicious but versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or even served alone as an appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of turkey and pumpkin sage sauce delivers a savory taste that’s both comforting and unique.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels, ensuring you can whip this up without stress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair these meatballs with your choice of pasta, mashed potatoes, or even on their own as a hearty appetizer.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Featuring pumpkin and sage, this recipe embraces the essence of fall and is perfect for seasonal celebrations.
• Healthy Twist: Using ground turkey makes this dish leaner while still packing in flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix ingredients without spilling, making it easier to combine everything evenly.
• Skillet (non-stick or cast iron): Ensures even cooking and browning of the meatballs, preventing them from sticking during frying.
• Garlic press: Quickly minces garlic, saving time and ensuring even flavor distribution in the meatball mixture.

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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!

For the 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 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 Turkey Meatballs

To prepare your turkey meatballs:
1. In a large bowl, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them sit for 2 to 3 minutes to soak.
2. Add in the onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, whole egg plus yolk. Mix thoroughly using a fork until well combined.
3. Gently fold in the ground turkey along with salt and pepper until just combined. The mixture will be sticky – this is normal!

Step 3: Form Meatballs

Using a 2-tablespoon scoop:
– Portion out your turkey meatballs onto a parchment-lined platter.
– Freeze for 20 to 25 minutes to firm them up.

Step 4: Cook Meatballs

Once chilled:
– Wet your palms slightly with water or oil.
– Roll each portion into round meatballs quickly.
– Brush olive oil over each meatball.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
– Drizzle about 4 tablespoons of oil once hot.
– Add meatballs in batches; sear until browned on all sides (about 10 minutes). Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Prepare Pumpkin Sage Sauce

After cooking the meatballs:
– Wipe out the skillet used for frying.
– Add ghee (or butter) along with olive oil; heat until melted.
– Sauté minced onion for about 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
– Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning; cook until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Whisk in:
– Pumpkin puree,
– Salt,
– Pepper,
– Chicken stock until smooth.

Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 2 to 3 minutes before removing from heat. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage.

Step 7: Serve

Add cooked meatballs back into the sauce for a few minutes just to warm through again. Serve topped with fried sage leaves if desired alongside your favorite accompaniment like gnocchi or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe can adapt to fit the occasion.

Over Pasta

• Serve the meatballs over your favorite type of pasta, such as linguini or penne, to soak up the rich pumpkin sage sauce.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Pair the meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the savory sauce to enhance the flavors of the dish.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Place the meatballs and sauce in a toasted sub roll for a hearty sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a lighter option, serve the turkey meatballs on a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette.

With Gnocchi

• Toss the meatballs and sauce with gnocchi for a deliciously chewy texture that complements the dish.

As Appetizers

• Skewer small meatballs and serve them as appetizers at parties, providing guests with bite-sized delights.

How to Perfect Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Creating perfect turkey meatballs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve juicy and flavorful results every time.

• Use fresh breadcrumbs – They help retain moisture and create a tender texture in your meatballs.
• Don’t overmix – Gently combine ingredients to prevent tough meatballs; overworking can lead to density.
• Chill before cooking – Letting the formed meatballs chill in the freezer for 20-25 minutes makes them easier to handle and helps them hold their shape while cooking.
• Sear before simmering – Browning the meatballs adds depth of flavor and creates a delightful crust that enhances overall taste.
• Taste your mixture – Before cooking, pan-fry a small portion of the mixture to taste for seasoning adjustments.
• Simmer gently – When adding meatballs to the sauce, allow them to warm through without boiling, preserving their juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Enhance your meal by pairing these turkey meatballs with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread – A crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside your main dish.
3. Cauliflower Rice – This low-carb option provides a light base that pairs well with hearty sauces.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – The nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts contrasts nicely with the rich pumpkin sage sauce.
5. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli offers freshness and balances out the richness of the meal.
6. Quinoa Salad – A quinoa salad with fresh herbs and lemon zest adds brightness and texture alongside your turkey meatballs.
7. Zucchini Noodles – For a healthy twist, use spiralized zucchini as an alternative to pasta or gnocchi.
8. Sweet Potato Fries – The sweetness from fries complements the savory flavors of the turkey meatballs beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here’s how to make your cooking experience smoother.

• Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs provide the best texture. Make sure yours are fresh or use panko for extra crunch.
• Overmixing the meatball mixture: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for a tender bite.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the meatballs helps them hold their shape while cooking. Don’t skip this crucial step!
• Ignoring seasoning: Proper seasoning is key to flavorful meatballs. Don’t forget to taste your mixture before cooking.
• Not letting the sauce simmer: A good simmer helps meld flavors together. Allow your sauce enough time to develop its rich taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Place cooked turkey meatballs in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Simmer gently over low heat with a splash of chicken stock if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to questions you might have about turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce.

How do I make turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce?

To make turkey meatballs, mix ground turkey with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, form into balls, and cook them before adding to a creamy pumpkin sage sauce.

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?

Yes! You can substitute ground chicken, beef, or lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile.

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

These meatballs pair wonderfully with gnocchi, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce offer a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for fall dining. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Enjoy creating this delicious meal that brings warmth and satisfaction!