Save Juicy turkey meatballs are simmered in a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce, capturing the essence of fall. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta for the ultimate comfort meal.
I've made these meatballs many times in autumn, and they never fail to warm up family dinners with their rich flavors and tender texture.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs: 1.5 lbs (680 g) ground turkey (preferably 93% lean), 1/2 cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg lightly beaten, 1/4 cup (35 g) 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 oz / 425 g) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste
- For Serving and Garnish: Fresh sage leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl gently combine ground turkey panko breadcrumbs Parmesan egg onion garlic sage thyme salt and pepper Mix until just combined do not overwork
- Form the Meatballs:
- Shape the mixture into about 24 meatballs (1-inch diameter) Place on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet
- Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Brown the meatballs in batches turning to brown all sides about 2&ndash3 minutes per side Remove and set aside
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In the same skillet add 1 tablespoon olive oil Sauté chopped onion over medium heat until soft about 5 minutes Add garlic cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in pumpkin puree and chicken broth Bring to a simmer and cook 5 minutes stirring occasionally
- Add Cream and Seasonings:
- Lower heat add heavy cream Parmesan chopped sage thyme and nutmeg Season with salt and pepper Simmer 510 minutes stirring until slightly thickened
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce:
- Gently add browned meatballs to the sauce submerging them Cover and simmer on low for 1520 minutes until meatballs reach 165°F (74°C) internally and sauce thickens
- Check for Doneness:
- Cut one meatball to ensure its cooked through
- Serve:
- Spoon meatballs and sauce over pasta mashed potatoes or polenta Garnish with fresh sage extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired
Save This recipe always brings everyone together around the table enjoying comfort food and fall aromas.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Large skillet with lid Wooden spoon or spatula Baking sheet or plate Measuring cups and spoons Small cookie scoop (optional) Instant-read thermometer (recommended)
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (Parmesan cheese heavy cream), Egg, Gluten (panko breadcrumbs unless using gluten-free) Always check labels for hidden allergens if substituting ingredients
Nutritional Information
Calories 355 Total Fat 20 g Carbohydrates 16 g Protein 27 g per serving
Save This dish is perfect for making ahead and freezing for easy weeknight dinners.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these turkey meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, both the meatballs and sauce can be prepared in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months, then reheat gently before serving.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or cashew cream to maintain richness without altering the flavor profile significantly.
- → How do I ensure the meatballs stay tender?
Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture and brown them gently to keep them moist and tender after simmering in the sauce.
- → Is it necessary to brown the meatballs before simmering?
Browning adds a depth of flavor and helps the meatballs hold their shape better during simmering, enhancing overall taste and texture.
- → What sides pair well with the pumpkin sage sauce and meatballs?
Serve over soft polenta, creamy mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta for a comforting and balanced meal.
- → Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes, substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary preferences without affecting the texture.