Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

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Why Make This Recipe

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce is a warm and comforting dish that’s not only delicious but also perfect for those cooler days when you want something hearty. The combination of ground turkey and a rich pumpkin sauce creates a unique flavor profile that’s both savory and slightly sweet, making it stand out from your usual meatball recipes. This dish is family-friendly and easy to prepare, making it great for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Plus, the ingredients are generally available year-round, allowing you to enjoy this meal regardless of the season.

When you serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce, you’re not just offering your family a meal; you’re serving them a blend of wholesome ingredients that can delight their taste buds while keeping them full and satisfied. The sauce is creamy and flavorful, perfect for coating your favorite pasta or even simply enjoyed on its own.

How to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Ingredients

To prepare Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

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 cheese
- 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 the tops 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
- 1 (15-ounce) can plus 1 cup organic pumpkin puree (note: not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to 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)

Directions

Prep the Meatball Ingredients: Start by gathering and preparing all ingredients needed for the turkey meatballs as per the ingredient list. This will ensure that you have everything organized and ready for use.
Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, add the fresh breadcrumbs and pour the milk over them. Let this mixture sit for 2 to 3 minutes to soak up the milk. After soaking, add in the finely minced onion, pressed garlic, chopped sage, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, grated parmesan, and the whole egg plus the yolk. Use a fork to mix these ingredients together until thoroughly combined.
Combine with Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the bowl, followed by the salt and black pepper. With a gentle touch, combine all the ingredients just until they are well mixed. Expect the mixture to be quite sticky and moist; this is normal.
Portion and Chill: Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, portion out the turkey meatballs and place them onto a parchment or wax paper-lined large platter. To make it easier to work with later, place the meatballs in the freezer to chill for 20 to 25 minutes.
Shape the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are chilled, lightly wet your palms with water or a small amount of oil and quickly roll each meatball between your palms to shape them into rounds.
Sear the Meatballs: Brush a small amount of olive oil over each formed meatball. Heat a large, heavy-bottom skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in about 4 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is hot, add a batch of turkey meatballs, searing and browning them for a moment. Once browned, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low, and continue to cook the meatballs on all sides for about 10 minutes, until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a clean platter and repeat with the remaining meatballs.
Prepare the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: After the meatballs are done, gather and prep all the ingredients for the pumpkin sage sauce. Wipe the skillet clean, then add the ghee (or butter) and olive oil. Once melted and the skillet is hot, add in the minced onion and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
Flavor the Sauce: Stir in the pressed garlic and Italian seasoning until aromatic. Next, whisk in the pumpkin puree, salt, and black pepper, followed by the chicken stock until the mixture is smooth. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Finish the Sauce: Turn off the heat and gently whisk in the grated parmesan, heavy cream, maple syrup, and the chopped sage.
Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Add the cooked meatballs back into the sauce and let them sit for a few minutes to warm through. If using, top with fried sage leaves for garnish.
Serve Hot: Serve the turkey meatballs with pumpkin sage sauce over your favorite accompaniment, such as gnocchi, linguini, penne, bow ties, or even creamy mashed potatoes.

How to Serve Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions to enjoy this delicious dish:

With Pasta: This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta. You can serve the meatballs and sauce over any type of pasta, from long strands like spaghetti or linguine to shapes like penne or rigatoni. The sauce will cling beautifully to the noodles, making for a delightful meal.
With Gnocchi: For something a bit different, serve the meatballs with gnocchi. The soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi complements the hearty meatballs and rich pumpkin sauce.
Mashed Potatoes or Polenta: If you’re looking for comfort food, serve the meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta. The sauce will create a delicious gravy that can soak into the potatoes.
With Crusty Bread: For a lighter option, serve the meatballs alongside crusty bread for dipping. This can work well if you’re trying to keep the meal simple but still delicious.
Garnished: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with fried sage leaves for added flavor and a lovely presentation. You can also sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top if desired.

How to Store Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Storing Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce is simple, making meal prep easy. Here are guidelines to follow:

Refrigerating: If you have leftovers, place the meatballs and pumpkin sage sauce in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the turkey meatballs in the pumpkin sage sauce. Place the cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will maintain their best quality for 2-3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.
Storing Separately: If you prefer, you can store the meatballs and sauce separately. Just be sure they are completely cooled before placing them in containers. This can help prevent the meatballs from becoming too soft in the sauce.

Tips to Make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always try to use fresh herbs and produce for the best flavor. Fresh sage and parsley will enhance the taste of your meatballs significantly compared to dried.
Soak the Breadcrumbs: Allowing the breadcrumbs to soak in milk ensures that the meatballs stay moist. This is a key step for getting the right texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the turkey meatball ingredients, mix gently and do not overwork the mixture. This helps keep the meatballs tender.
Chill Before Frying: Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape during frying, reducing the chances of them falling apart.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in both the meatballs and the sauce according to your taste preferences. You can add more garlic, herbs, or spices as desired.
Make a Double Batch: If you have time, consider making a double batch. You can freeze half for a quick meal later on.

Variation

The beauty of Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce lies in its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try:

Different Meat Choices: If you don’t have ground turkey or prefer a different protein, you can use ground chicken or even a mixture of ground beef and ground pork. Each will give the meatballs a different flavor profile.
Spice it Up: For those who like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the turkey meatball mixture or the sauce.
Vegetarian Option: For a veggie version, consider making meatballs from lentils or chickpeas mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings. Use the same pumpkin sauce for a satisfying meal.
Add Ins: You can chop and add vegetables to the meatball mixture, such as finely grated carrots or zucchini, for added nutrition and flavor.
Different Sauces: While the pumpkin sage sauce is delightful, try different sauces like a creamy Alfredo or a simple marinara if you want to change it occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
- Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sweeteners and spices.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
- The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. Using a meat thermometer can help achieve this.
Can I substitute ghee with something else?
- Absolutely! You can use unsalted butter or olive oil instead of ghee. Each will give a slightly different flavor and richness to the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the meatballs and the sauce ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
What sides go well with Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?
- This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including different types of pasta, gnocchi, mashed potatoes, or even a simple salad for a lighter option.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious recipe filled with flavor! Whether for a cozy family dinner or a meal prep option for the week, Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce is sure to become a favorite on your dinner table.