Save to Pinterest Tender turkey meatballs paired with a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce—perfect for a comforting autumn dinner.
This recipe has become a family favorite during chilly evenings and never fails to impress guests with its unique sauce.
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 Meatballs:
- 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 to 25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Sauce:
- 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:
- 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.
Save to Pinterest Cooking this dish always brings the family together around the dinner table sharing stories and laughter.
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Rest Time
5 minutes
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this comforting dish with loved ones any time of the year to bring warmth and joy to your table.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of turkey is best to use?
Ground turkey breast or a mix of dark and white meat works well, providing a tender and juicy texture.
- → Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, meatballs can be baked in advance and frozen. Reheat them gently in the pumpkin sauce before serving.
- → What can I use to serve with these meatballs?
They pair nicely with cooked pasta, rice, or even roasted vegetables to soak up the pumpkin sage sauce.
- → How do I make the sauce creamier?
Adding heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the pumpkin puree creates a rich, smooth sauce with depth.
- → Can I substitute fresh sage with dried?
Dried sage can be used at a reduced quantity (about one-third fresh amount) without losing the aromatic flavor.
- → Are there any allergy considerations?
This dish contains dairy (Parmesan, cream), egg, and gluten unless using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Adjust ingredients as needed for allergies.