Print

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce is a comforting dish that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. Juicy turkey meatballs are simmered in a creamy pumpkin sauce infused with sage, offering a delightful blend of seasonal flavors. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, whether served over pasta, with crusty bread, or on a bed of fresh greens. Enjoy the warm, rich taste that will impress your guests and satisfy your comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups (slightly heaping) fresh breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs)
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 cup finely minced onion
  • 4 garlic cloves, pressed through garlic press
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 1 large whole egg plus 1 yolk
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat, 93/7 ratio lean to fat)
  • 1 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil or avocado oil, for brushing over top and lightly frying
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup finely minced onion
  • 6 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 (15 ounce) can plus 1 cup organic pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to your taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 3/4 cups chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon chopped, fresh sage
  • Fried sage leaves, optional garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk; let sit for 3 minutes.
  2. Add minced onion, garlic, sage, parsley, Italian seasoning, parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper; mix well.
  3. Gently fold in ground turkey until just combined; form into meatballs and chill for 25 minutes.
  4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
  5. For the sauce: Sauté onion and garlic in ghee; stir in pumpkin puree, chicken stock, and seasonings. Simmer briefly.
  6. Whisk in cream and parmesan before adding meatballs to warm through.

Nutrition