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 fall evening and everyone asked for seconds
Ingredients
- For the 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
- For the 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
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper Mix gently until just combined
- Step 3:
- Shape the mixture into 1 inch meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet
- Step 4:
- Bake for 20 25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through
- Step 5:
- While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
- Step 6:
- Add pumpkin puree and chicken broth stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer
- Step 7:
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, sage, nutmeg, salt, and pepper Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally
- Step 8:
- Add the baked meatballs to the skillet, turning them gently to coat with the sauce
- Step 9:
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld
- Step 10:
- Serve meatballs and sauce over pasta or rice, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired
Save This recipe always brings my family together especially on crisp autumn nights
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper, large skillet, measuring cups and spoons, spatula or wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (Parmesan, cream), Egg, Gluten (breadcrumbs unless gluten free option is used). Always check product labels if you have severe allergies
Nutritional Information
Calories 450, total fat 25 g, carbohydrates 25 g, protein 32 g per serving
Save This dish combines cozy flavors with a simple prep for a perfect seasonal meal
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the meatballs tender?
Use a mix of breadcrumbs and egg to bind without overmixing the meat. Bake until just cooked to maintain juiciness.
- → Can I substitute pumpkin puree?
Yes, but pumpkin adds natural sweetness and creaminess. Butternut squash puree works as a mild substitute.
- → What herbs pair well with pumpkin and turkey?
Sage is traditional and complements the pumpkin’s earthiness. Parsley adds brightness to the meatballs.
- → Is it okay to prepare meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely, meatballs can be cooked and frozen. Reheat gently in the sauce to retain moisture and flavor.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
Serve over cooked pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables to complement the creamy sauce.
- → How can I add a spicy kick?
Include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce while simmering to add subtle heat.