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Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce Recipe

Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 9 reviews

These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce offer a delicious twist on a classic comfort dish. Lean ground turkey is combined with herbs and Parmesan to form tender meatballs, which are then simmered in a creamy pumpkin and sage sauce. It’s a hearty, flavorful recipe perfect for fall or any time you’re craving a cozy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs

  • 1.5 lbs ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, for browning

For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

  • Fresh sage leaves
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix just until everything is evenly distributed, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
  2. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into about 24 meatballs using your hands or a small cookie scoop (about 1-inch diameter). Place them on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet.
  3. Brown the Meatballs: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and brown them on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add Pumpkin Puree and Broth: Stir in the pumpkin puree and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Stir in Cream and Seasonings: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, fresh sage, dried thyme, and ground nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Simmer the Sauce: Continue to gently simmer the sauce for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  8. Add Meatballs to Sauce: Carefully add the browned meatballs into the pumpkin sage sauce, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
  9. Simmer Until Cooked Through: Cover the skillet and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes until meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and sauce has thickened.
  10. Check for Doneness: Cut one meatball open to check if cooked through; if still pink inside, continue to simmer a few more minutes.
  11. Serve: Serve meatballs and sauce over pasta, mashed potatoes, polenta, or enjoy as an appetizer. Garnish with fresh sage leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and optional red pepper flakes.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey that is 93% lean or leaner to keep meatballs tender but not dry.
  • Do not overmix the meatball ingredients to maintain a light texture.
  • Adjust cream quantity for a thicker or thinner sauce as preferred.
  • Pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling—provides the deep, natural flavor needed.
  • These meatballs can be baked instead of pan-fried for a lighter option.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Sauce and meatballs freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, pumpkin sauce, sage sauce, fall recipe, comfort food, healthy meatballs

Find it online: https://islawhite.com/turkey-meatballs-pumpkin-sage-sauce-recipe/