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–+ servings

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Lean ground turkey meatballs, infused with fresh sage and Italian seasoning, are gently simmered in a creamy, velvety sauce made from pumpkin puree and cream for a comforting, autumn-inspired meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: DINNER
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatballs:
  • Ground Turkey: 1 pound lean recommended
  • Fresh Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup or panko
  • Milk: 1/4 cup
  • Onion: 1/4 cup finely minced
  • Garlic: 2 cloves fresh minced
  • Fresh Sage: 1 tablespoon chopped (or less dried)
  • Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup grated (optional)
  • Eggs: 1 whole egg + 1 yolk
  • For the Pumpkin Sauce:
  • Canned Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup organic recommended
  • Cream: 1 cup heavy or low-fat
  • Remaining Fresh Sage from above: For flavor
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste

Equipment

  • Medium Bowl
  • Large Bowl
  • Skillet
  • Clean Hands

Method
 

  1. Prepare Breadcrumbs: In a medium bowl, combine the fresh breadcrumbs with the milk. Let them soak for about 5 minutes to ensure moisture.
  2. Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, soaked breadcrumbs, minced onion, garlic, fresh sage, Italian seasoning, optional parmesan cheese, and the eggs (whole and yolk). Do not overwork the mixture.
  3. Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into uniform meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
  4. Cook Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Pan-fry the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown all over. Remove any excess grease.
  5. Make Pumpkin Sauce: In the same skillet, add the canned pumpkin puree and cream. Stir well to combine, and then add any remaining fresh sage. Heat through until the sauce is warmed and creamy, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine: Gently add the cooked meatballs back into the pumpkin sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  7. Serve: Serve warm, garnished with extra sage or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Notes

Tender Meatballs: The key to tender meatballs is to mix the ingredients gently and avoid overworking the ground turkey.
Thickening: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth until the desired consistency is reached.
Substitutions: You can substitute ground chicken for the turkey if needed.
Serving: This dish is excellent served over pasta, rice, or soft polenta.

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