These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce are a delightful comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings. The combination of juicy turkey meatballs paired with a rich, creamy pumpkin sauce creates an unforgettable dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or entertaining guests, these meatballs are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Flavorful: The pumpkin sage sauce adds a unique twist that elevates traditional meatballs.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this recipe effortlessly.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs store well, making them ideal for leftovers throughout the week.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or festive gatherings, they’re sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation and ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your ingredients effectively without spilling.
Skillet: A heavy bottom skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the turkey meatballs.
Parchment paper or wax paper: Helps prevent sticking when chilling the meatballs before frying.
Garlic press: Makes crushing garlic quick and easy, releasing maximum flavor.

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: 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

To prepare your turkey meatballs:
1. In a large bowl, add the breadcrumbs and pour over the milk. Let them sit and soak for about 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Add in the onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, egg and yolk. Mix everything together with a fork until well combined.
3. Gently incorporate the ground turkey along with salt and pepper until just mixed. Remember that the mixture will be sticky; this is normal.

Step 3: Chill the Meatballs

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

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs

Once chilled:
1. Lightly wet your palms with water (or oil) and roll each portion into round meatballs quickly.
2. Brush olive oil over each meatball.

Step 5: Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add about 4 tablespoons of oil once hot.
2. Sear batches of turkey meatballs until browned on all sides—about 10 minutes total—ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Set aside on a clean platter.

Step 6: Prepare Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Wipe out the skillet used for frying:
1. Melt ghee (or butter) with olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté minced onion for about 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning until aromatic; then whisk in pumpkin puree, salt, pepper, and chicken stock until smooth.

Step 7: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Let the sauce simmer gently for about 2 to 3 minutes before removing from heat:
1. Whisk in grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and chopped sage.
2. Add cooked meatballs back into the sauce to warm through before serving.

Enjoy your turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce over gnocchi, linguini, penne, bow ties, or mashed potatoes!

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

These turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce are a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful ways to serve them.

Over Pasta

Gnocchi – Pair with tender gnocchi for a delightful and filling meal.
Linguini – The sauce clings beautifully to linguini, enhancing each bite.
Penne – Use penne for a hearty, satisfying experience with every forkful.

With Vegetables

Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the savory sauce perfectly.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts complements the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Steamed Broccoli – A healthy side that adds a nice crunch and color to your plate.

As an Appetizer

Mini Meatball Skewers – Serve smaller versions on skewers for easy finger food at gatherings.
Stuffed Mini Peppers – Fill mini bell peppers with meatballs for a colorful and tasty appetizer.

How to Perfect Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

To ensure your turkey meatballs turn out juicy and flavorful, follow these helpful tips.

Bold Ingredients – Use fresh herbs like sage and parsley to enhance flavor significantly.
Chill the Mixture – Refrigerate the meatball mixture before shaping; this helps them hold their shape better while cooking.
Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can make them tough.
Use a Meat Thermometer – Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked meatballs.
Sear Before Saucing – Searing enhances flavor through caramelization, giving your dish depth.
Simmer Gently – Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce just enough to absorb flavors without overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Complement your turkey meatballs with sides that enhance their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options.

Garlic Bread – Crispy bread spread with garlic butter pairs wonderfully with saucy dishes.
Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that absorbs the flavors of the sauce effectively.
Quinoa Salad – A light and nutty quinoa salad adds freshness and texture to your meal.
Creamed Spinach – Rich and creamy, this classic side balances well with savory meatballs.
Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots provide a nice contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
Couscous with Herbs – Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs makes a great base for soaking up sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Overmixing the Meatball Mixture: Mixing too aggressively can lead to tough meatballs. Use a gentle hand when combining ingredients to maintain a tender texture.
Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the meatballs before cooking can make them fall apart during frying. Always refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm them up.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can throw off flavor and texture. Always use precise measurements for best results.
Using Low-Quality Pumpkin Puree: Low-quality or sweetened pumpkin puree can alter the taste of the dish. Opt for organic pumpkin puree without additives for authentic flavor.
Neglecting to Brown the Meatballs: Skipping the searing step may result in bland meatballs. Take the time to brown them for enhanced flavor and a nice crust.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store turkey meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Ensure the sauce is cooled before placing in containers.

Freezing Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Freeze meatballs without sauce for better texture, using freezer-safe bags or containers.
They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute and offers a similar flavor profile.

How do I ensure my turkey meatballs stay moist?

Including breadcrumbs soaked in milk helps retain moisture during cooking, ensuring juicy meatballs.

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

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa for a hearty meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and simply reheat them before serving.

Final Thoughts

Turkey meatballs in pumpkin sage sauce offer a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any autumn meal. Their versatility allows you to serve them over various accompaniments like pasta or grains. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Try this recipe today for a warm and inviting dinner that’s sure to please!