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Turkey Meatballs Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Savory Turkey Meatballs in Creamy Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Enjoy these Turkey Meatballs with Pumpkin Sage Sauce, a healthy and comforting dish perfect for autumn.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1.5 lbs Ground Turkey A lean protein that keeps these meatballs healthy and hearty.
  • 0.5 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Provides texture; substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a GF option.
  • 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances flavor; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 Large Egg Acts as a binder to keep meatballs moist.
  • 0.25 cup Chopped Yellow Onion Adds moisture and depth.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Infuses aromatic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Sage Imparts herbal freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Contributes earthy undertones.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for browning meatballs and sautéing onions.
  • 1 can Pumpkin Puree 15 ounces; plain puree, not pie filling.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Deepens the sauce and adds richness.
  • 0.5 cup Heavy Cream Provides creaminess; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Elevates the fall flavor profile.
For Garnish
  • Fresh Sage Leaves For presentation.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese For presentation.
  • Red Pepper Flakes Optional, for a touch of heat.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • baking sheet
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, yellow onion, minced garlic, fresh sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine, avoiding overmixing.
  2. Form the mixture into 24 small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place on a lined baking sheet.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side, then remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then add chopped yellow onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Stir in pumpkin puree and chicken broth, bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  6. Reduce heat to low, add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, fresh sage, thyme, and nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until creamy.
  7. Let the sauce thicken for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Add the browned meatballs back into the sauce, ensuring they are submerged, and allow them to warm through.
  9. Cover and let simmer on low for 15-20 minutes until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  10. Serve the meatballs over pasta or polenta, garnished with fresh sage and Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Avoid overmixing meatball mixture to keep them tender. Brown meatballs in batches for best results. Always check the internal temperature for safety.

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