Savory Turkey Meatballs in Creamy Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Recipe By:
Jennifer Shear
Updated:

Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce is a dish that brings together the warmth of autumn with the comfort of a hearty meal. Imagine sinking your fork into tender turkey meatballs, swimming in a creamy pumpkin sage sauce that smells like a cozy fall evening. This delightful combination will make your taste buds dance and your heart sing.

Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air and plates piled high with delicious food were the stars of the show. It’s perfect for those crisp evenings or holiday dinners when you want something that feels both special and effortless. So get ready; this flavorful experience will leave you craving more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Turkey meatballs are easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
  • The rich pumpkin sage sauce adds a unique flavor twist that’s simply irresistible.
  • Visually stunning, it presents beautifully on any dinner table, promising to impress your guests.
  • Perfect for potlucks or cozy family dinners, this dish pairs well with various sides, making it incredibly versatile.

Ingredients for Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for moist meatballs without too much fat.

  • Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs while adding texture.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan enhances flavor and gives a savory kick to the meatballs.

  • Fresh Sage: The star of our sauce; fresh sage brings an earthy aroma reminiscent of autumn.

  • Canned Pumpkin Puree: Choose pure pumpkin puree for creaminess without added sugars; it’s packed with nutrients.

  • Heavy Cream: To achieve that velvety smooth sauce, heavy cream is essential; it balances out the pumpkin’s sweetness.

For the Sauce:

  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while still infusing flavor into the sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce

How to Make Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Your Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh sage, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is combined—think of it as giving your turkey a little spa treatment!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands—yes, it’s squishy fun—shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake Those Meatballs

Pop them in your preheated oven and let them bake for about 20 minutes or until they’re cooked through and golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling like a Thanksgiving feast!

Step 5: Create the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine canned pumpkin puree, heavy cream, chicken broth, chopped fresh sage, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is heated through and creamy. This sauce is like autumn in a bowl!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once your meatballs are done baking, gently add them to the pumpkin sage sauce. Let them simmer together for about five minutes so they can soak up all that saucy goodness.

Finally, serve your turkey meatballs over pasta or alongside crusty bread for dipping. Drizzle some extra sauce on top for good measure—and maybe even sprinkle more Parmesan cheese because why not? Enjoy every savory bite!

You Must Know

  • This Turkey Meatballs with Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that will surprise your taste buds.
  • The combination of turkey and pumpkin is not only delicious but also healthy, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing ground turkey with seasonings and forming meatballs. While they bake, sauté onions and garlic for the sauce, then add pumpkin puree and sage. This sequence ensures everything comes together perfectly without any last-minute chaos.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or beef if you prefer. Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for extra warmth, or toss in some spinach for added nutrition. Customize this dish based on your pantry and personal taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over medium heat or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal without losing flavor or texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For juicy meatballs, avoid overmixing the turkey mixture; it can lead to tough meatballs.
  • Browning them slightly in a skillet before baking adds extra flavor.
  • Lastly, letting the sauce simmer enhances all those delicious flavors, so be patient!

Sometimes I serve this dish when friends come over, and their reactions are priceless—eyes lighting up as they take that first bite! It’s become our go-to comfort food during chilly evenings.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

To make Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce, you will require ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, and fresh sage. For the sauce, gather pumpkin puree, chicken broth, heavy cream, and additional sage. These ingredients combine to create a savory dish that highlights the flavors of turkey and pumpkin. You can also add spices like salt and pepper to enhance the taste further.

How long does it take to prepare Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

Preparing Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes mixing the meatball ingredients and shaping them into balls. Cooking the meatballs may take an additional 20 minutes. While they are cooking, you can simultaneously prepare the creamy pumpkin sauce. Overall, this dish is relatively quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Can I freeze Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

Yes, you can freeze Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce! After cooking, let the meatballs cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.

What can I serve with Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce pair nicely with various side dishes. Consider serving them over pasta or rice for a hearty meal. Alternatively, roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement these meatballs well. For a cozy touch, serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This versatility makes it easy to create a balanced dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion for Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce :

In conclusion, Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce offer a delightful blend of flavors that are perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation methods, this dish becomes an easy weeknight meal or a comforting weekend feast. Remember to experiment with sides like pasta or roasted vegetables to elevate your dining experience further. Enjoy this tasty combination of turkey and pumpkin with family and friends!

Print

Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Turkey Meatballs with Pumpkin Sage Sauce is a delightful dish that embodies the flavors of fall in every bite. Tender turkey meatballs are enveloped in a creamy pumpkin sage sauce, blending savory and sweet notes for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this comforting recipe will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, sage, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pumpkin puree, heavy cream, chicken broth, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
  6. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 meatball with sauce (approximately 150g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: - For extra flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the sauce. - Substitute ground turkey with chicken or beef if preferred. - Add a pinch of nutmeg or toss in some spinach for added nutrition.

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