Save Tender turkey meatballs paired with a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce perfect for a comforting autumn dinner
I first served this to my family on a chilly evening and it quickly became our favorite fall dish
Ingredients
- 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
- 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 Meatball Ingredients:
- 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 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through
- Heat Sauce Base:
- 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
- Finish Sauce:
- 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 Together:
- 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 This recipe has brought cozy family dinners with warm memories around the table
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 25 g, Protein: 32 g
Dietary Notes
Nut-Free, contains Dairy, Egg, Gluten unless gluten-free breadcrumbs are used
Cooking Tips
Use fresh sage if possible for best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving
Save This dish is easy to prepare yet sophisticated enough to impress guests
Kitchen Guide
- → What kind of turkey should I use?
Ground turkey with moderate fat content works best to keep the meatballs tender and flavorful.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free breadcrumbs to avoid gluten.
- → How can I add more depth to the sauce?
Adding a splash of white wine while simmering the sauce enhances its complexity.
- → Is the sauce suitable for reheating?
Yes, reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture without separating the sauce.
- → What herbs complement this dish?
Fresh sage is central, but parsley added as garnish brightens the flavors beautifully.
- → Can I add spice to this dish?
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce offers a subtle spicy kick without overpowering.