Pin this Tender turkey meatballs paired with a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce—perfect for a comforting autumn dinner.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite during chilly evenings. I love how the pumpkin sage sauce adds a unique twist to classic turkey meatballs.
Ingredients
- For the Turkey Meatballs: 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey, 1/2 cup (60 g) breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg beaten, 2 cloves garlic minced, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) pumpkin puree, 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp fresh sage finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried sage), 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste), 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp olive oil
- For Serving (Optional): Cooked pasta or rice, Extra Parmesan cheese, Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix meatball ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape meatballs:
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare sauce base:
- While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add pumpkin and broth:
- Add pumpkin puree and chicken broth stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add remaining sauce ingredients:
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, sage, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Combine meatballs and sauce:
- Add the baked meatballs to the skillet turning them gently to coat with the sauce.
- Simmer with sauce:
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Serve meatballs and sauce over pasta or rice garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Pin this My family always gathers around the dinner table eagerly when this dish is served; it's a heartwarming meal that brings everyone together.
Preparation Tips
For best results, make sure not to overmix the meatball ingredients to keep them tender. Use fresh herbs when possible to enhance flavor.
Storage
Store leftover meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over cooked pasta, rice, or even creamy polenta for a hearty and satisfying meal. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Pin this This recipe combines cozy flavors with easy preparation making it perfect for a nourishing weeknight meal.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do you keep turkey meatballs moist?
Incorporate ingredients like breadcrumbs, beaten egg, and Parmesan cheese to retain moisture and tenderness in the turkey meatballs.
- → What gives the sauce its rich flavor?
The pumpkin puree combined with heavy cream, Parmesan, and fresh sage creates a creamy, aromatic sauce with warm, earthy notes.
- → Can the sauce be adjusted for spice?
Yes, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce will introduce a gentle heat without overpowering other flavors.
- → What are good serving options with this dish?
The turkey meatballs and sauce pair well with cooked pasta or rice, enhanced by a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
- → Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Meatballs can be cooked and frozen ahead of time. Gently reheat them in the sauce before serving to meld the flavors.