Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce offer a perfect fall-inspired meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. The tender turkey meatballs are baked to perfection and paired with a creamy, savory pumpkin sage sauce that elevates the dish with its rich texture and aromatic herbs. This combination of ground turkey and pumpkin puree brings together a lighter yet flavorful meal that’s ideal for cozy dinners. Whether you’re craving something hearty or looking for a twist on traditional meatball recipes, this dish will surely satisfy.

The pumpkin sage sauce brings an autumnal touch, giving the meatballs a deliciously creamy base. Paired with freshly chopped sage and a hint of Parmesan, this dish is simple to prepare but delivers bold, savory flavors. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for meal prepping or serving at your next family dinner. It’s the perfect way to incorporate the flavors of fall into your meals without being overly heavy. Serve it with a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that delectable sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect for Fall Flavors

The combination of pumpkin puree and fresh sage creates a warm, earthy flavor that embodies the best of fall.

2. Lean and Flavorful Meatballs

Ground turkey provides a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs without sacrificing taste or texture.

3. Quick and Easy

This recipe is simple to make with minimal prep time and an easy cooking process, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

4. Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

The smooth and creamy pumpkin sage sauce adds a luscious finish to the dish, perfectly complementing the turkey meatballs.

5. Versatile and Customizable

You can adjust the sauce’s consistency or spice level and serve these meatballs with a variety of sides to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

Add a Kick

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pumpkin sage sauce or mix it into the turkey meatball mixture.

Make it Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute them with almond flour to make this dish gluten-free.

Vegan Option

For a plant-based version, you can use a combination of plant-based ground meat (such as lentils or mushrooms) in place of the turkey and a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Customize the Herbs

If you’re not a fan of sage, you can substitute it with thyme or rosemary, which will still complement the pumpkin’s flavor.

Add Vegetables

Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like spinach or zucchini into the turkey meatball mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for the turkey meatballs.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Shape the turkey mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.

Step 5: Make the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, make the pumpkin sage sauce. In a saucepan, combine the pumpkin puree and chicken broth. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and slightly simmering.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs are cooked, place them in the saucepan with the pumpkin sage sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the turkey meatballs with the pumpkin sage sauce over rice, pasta, or with a side of crusty bread. Garnish with extra sage if desired and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overwork the Meatball Mixture: When mixing the turkey, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, be sure not to overmix, as this can lead to dense meatballs. Gently mix just until combined.
Check for Doneness: Make sure the meatballs are fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Make the Sauce Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk once the pumpkin puree and broth are heated through.
Keep the Meatballs Moist: To prevent the meatballs from drying out, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil or some milk to the meatball mixture.

How to Serve

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce can be served in many ways. Serve them over your favorite pasta for a comforting meal, or pair them with roasted vegetables or a green salad. These meatballs also make a great filling for sandwiches or wraps, and they can be enjoyed with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the rich pumpkin sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in a saucepan or microwave until hot.

Freezing

You can freeze the meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months. To freeze, arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat the meatballs, place them in a saucepan with the sauce and heat over medium heat until warm. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little extra chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground beef will work well in this recipe, though it will add more fat. You can also use ground chicken for a leaner alternative.

2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the raw meatballs and bake them directly from frozen.

3. Can I use canned pumpkin for the sauce?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree is perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

4. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the meatball mixture or the sauce.

5. Can I use a different herb instead of sage?

While sage is the star herb in this recipe, you can experiment with thyme, rosemary, or even basil to change the flavor profile.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute, and replace the heavy cream (if used) with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

7. How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?

For more flavor, add additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a bit of Dijon mustard to the meatball mixture.

8. Can I bake the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat with the sauce when ready to serve.

9. Can I use other types of squash for the sauce?

Yes, other types of squash like acorn or kabocha would work in place of pumpkin for a slightly different flavor, but the texture and consistency may vary slightly.

10. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian.

Conclusion

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce is a perfect combination of savory and sweet, offering the comforting flavors of fall in every bite. With its easy preparation, delightful meatballs, and rich pumpkin sage sauce, this dish is sure to become a fall favorite in your home. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad, this recipe is versatile, flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.