Save to Pinterest Tender turkey meatballs paired with a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce—perfect for a comforting autumn dinner.
I first served this recipe on a chilly fall evening and my whole family loved the warm flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients
- Ground turkey: 1 lb (450 g)
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup (25 g) grated for meatballs and 1/4 cup (25 g) grated for sauce
- Egg: 1 large, beaten
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped for meatballs and additional chopped for serving
- Salt: 1/2 tsp for meatballs and 1/2 tsp (or to taste) for sauce
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp for meatballs and 1/4 tsp for sauce
- Pumpkin puree: 1 can (15 oz/425 g)
- Chicken broth: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Fresh sage: 1 tbsp finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried sage)
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Cooked pasta or rice: For serving (optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese: For serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375℉ (190℃). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Meatballs:
- 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.
- Prepare Sauce:
- While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 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:
- 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 to Pinterest My family looks forward to this meal every fall, sharing it at Sunday dinners and enjoying the cozy atmosphere it creates.
Notes
Adding a splash of white wine to the sauce enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, baking sheet lined with parchment paper, large skillet, measuring cups and spoons, and a spatula or wooden spoon are essential for making this recipe with ease.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, 25 g total fat, 25 g carbohydrates, and 32 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This dish is a perfect blend of savory and creamy with subtle fall spices, making it a must-try recipe this season.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to bake the meatballs evenly?
Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet spaced evenly apart to allow hot air circulation, ensuring they cook uniformly and develop a golden crust.
- → Can I substitute turkey with other meats?
Yes, ground chicken or lean pork can be used as alternatives, but turkey provides a mild flavor that complements the pumpkin sage sauce well.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from curdling when adding cream?
Simmer the sauce gently on medium-low heat and stir constantly after adding the cream to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
- → What dishes pair well with the meatballs and sauce?
The meatballs and pumpkin sage sauce are delicious served over cooked pasta or rice, which absorb the sauce and add texture to the meal.
- → Can the meatballs be prepared in advance?
Yes, meatballs can be baked ahead of time and frozen. Reheat them gently in the sauce before serving to maintain their tenderness and flavor.
- → How can I add a spicy note to the sauce?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while simmering the sauce to introduce a subtle heat that complements the creamy pumpkin flavors.