Save Juicy turkey meatballs simmered in a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce—an easy, comforting dish perfect for fall or any cozy evening.
I first served this recipe on a chilly autumn night and it quickly became a family favorite thanks to its rich flavor and simple preparation.
Ingredients
- For the Turkey Meatballs: 500 g (1 lb) ground turkey
- For the Turkey Meatballs: 1 large egg
- For the Turkey Meatballs: 60 g (½ cup) breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
- For the Turkey Meatballs: 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- For the Turkey Meatballs: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Turkey Meatballs: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
- For the Turkey Meatballs: ½ tsp salt
- For the Turkey Meatballs: ¼ tsp black pepper
- For the Turkey Meatballs: 2 tbsp milk
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 1 tbsp olive oil
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 1 small onion, finely chopped
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 400 g (1¾ cups) pumpkin purée (canned or homemade)
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 250 ml (1 cup) chicken or vegetable broth
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 1½ tsp fresh sage, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried)
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 20 g (2 tbsp) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined—do not overwork.
- Shape Meatballs:
- Shape mixture into 16–18 small meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Meatballs:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until meatballs are golden and cooked through.
- Cook Sauce:
- While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Add Sauce Ingredients:
- Add pumpkin purée, chicken broth, cream, sage, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Finish Sauce:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
- Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer together for 2–3 minutes to heat through and blend flavors.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra sage or Parmesan if desired.
Save This recipe always brings my family together with its warm flavors and hearty ingredients, perfect for sharing around the dinner table.
Notes
Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a heartier meal.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, baking sheet, parchment paper, large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, milk (Parmesan, cream), and gluten (breadcrumbs). For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check ingredient labels for allergens if unsure.
Save This pumpkin sage sauce elevates simple turkey meatballs into a comforting, delicious meal in just under an hour.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken can easily replace turkey for a slightly different but equally tasty result.
- → How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce a bit longer to reduce liquid or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the breadcrumbs?
Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to accommodate gluten sensitivities without affecting texture.
- → Can I prepare meatballs without using eggs?
Eggs help bind the meatballs, but you can substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water or mashed potatoes as alternatives.
- → What side dishes complement this meal well?
Mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed rice make excellent accompaniments to soak up the flavorful pumpkin sage sauce.
- → How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers stay fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator when properly stored.