Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These savory and juicy Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are a rich, delicious, and warming meal brimming with fall flavors! Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, this dish brings together the comforting taste of turkey meatballs and the creamy sweetness of pumpkin sauce. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how well it pairs with your favorite sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The combination of turkey and pumpkin creates a warm and satisfying dish.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even on its own for a hearty meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
• Healthier Option: Ground turkey provides a leaner alternative without compromising flavor.
• Seasonal Delight: Embrace the fall season with ingredients that highlight autumn’s best offerings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, you’ll need a few essential tools to make your preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Ideal for frying meatballs evenly while achieving a nice golden-brown crust.
• Garlic press: Ensures finely minced garlic for robust flavor without the hassle.

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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 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: 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 Turkey Meatballs

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

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

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

Step 4: Shape Meatballs

Once chilled:
– Lightly wet your palms with water or oil.
– Roll each portion into round meatballs between your palms.

Step 5: Cook the Meatballs

Brush each meatball lightly with olive oil. In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
– Drizzle about 4 tablespoons of oil.
– Once hot, add in batches of meatballs to sear until browned. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking until fully cooked (165° internal temp). Transfer cooked meatballs to a clean platter.

Step 6: Prepare Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Gather all ingredients for the sauce while wiping out the skillet used for cooking meatballs:
– Add ghee (or butter) along with oil. Once melted:
– Sauté minced onion for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
– Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning; cook until aromatic.
– Whisk in pumpkin puree, chicken stock, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 7: Combine & Serve

Allow sauce to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes. Then whisk in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage.
Add cooked meatballs back into the sauce just long enough to warm through.
Serve hot over gnocchi, linguini, penne pasta, bow ties or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce offer a warm and comforting meal perfect for any fall dinner. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Over Pasta

• Gnocchi – Soft, pillowy gnocchi pair beautifully with the rich sauce, soaking up the flavors.
• Linguini – Long strands of linguini complement the meatballs and sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Penne – The tubular shape of penne allows the sauce to cling well, creating a hearty dish.

With Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts add a nice crunch and earthy flavor that balances the meal.
• Sautéed Spinach – Lightly sautéed spinach provides freshness and a pop of color on your plate.

On a Bed of Grains

• Quinoa – Nutty quinoa makes a nutritious base that pairs well with the savory meatballs and creamy sauce.
• Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf offers a subtle flavor that complements the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Making perfect turkey meatballs is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Lean Ground Turkey – Opt for dark meat turkey (93/7 ratio) for juicier meatballs that won’t dry out during cooking.
• Chill Before Cooking – Chilling the meatballs helps them hold their shape while frying, resulting in perfectly round meatballs.
• Don’t Overmix – Combine ingredients just until mixed to keep the texture light and tender.
• Sear and Simmer – Searing adds flavor; simmering in the sauce keeps them moist. Balance both techniques for optimal flavor.
• Taste Your Sauce – Adjust salt and spices as needed after simmering; this ensures maximum flavor in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

To create a complete meal around your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, consider these side dishes. Each option enhances the flavors of your main course.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair perfectly with the rich sauce.
2. Crispy Roasted Potatoes – Seasoned and roasted until golden brown, these add a satisfying crunch to your plate.
3. Cauliflower Rice – A light, low-carb option that absorbs flavors well while adding nutrition to your meal.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Fresh broccoli adds color and a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the sauce.
5. Buttery Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn offers a delightful contrast to savory flavors and is easy to prepare alongside your meal.
6. Spinach Salad with Vinaigrette – A fresh salad introduces brightness, making it an excellent complementary option to rich meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, a few common pitfalls can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the meatballs before cooking can lead to them falling apart. Always chill for 20-25 minutes to firm them up.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can make the meatballs tough. Gently combine until just mixed for tender results.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoned meatballs can taste bland. Ensure you follow the salt and pepper measurements, adjusting to your taste as needed.
• Ignoring cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the meatballs outside while leaving them raw inside. Start with medium-high heat and reduce as necessary.
• Using canned pumpkin pie filling: Always use pure pumpkin puree instead of pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that alter the flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover turkey meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will keep fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Freeze meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They are best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot. Stir occasionally for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce:

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for turkey if you prefer a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

How do I ensure my turkey meatballs stay moist?

Adding breadcrumbs soaked in milk helps keep the meatballs moist. Don’t skip this step!

Can I make pumpkin sage sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

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

These meatballs pair well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa for a wholesome meal.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary, or incorporate vegetables such as spinach into your sauce for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce offer a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any fall meal. The recipe is versatile; try customizing it with different herbs or side dishes according to your taste preferences. Enjoy this cozy dish with family and friends!