Pin Juicy turkey meatballs simmered in a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce—an easy, comforting dish perfect for fall or any cozy evening.
I first made these meatballs for a chilly autumn night and they quickly became a family favorite.
Ingredients
- For the Turkey Meatballs: 500 g (1 lb) ground turkey, 1 large egg, 60 g (½ cup) breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired), 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic minced, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (or 1 tbsp dried), ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp milk
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 400 g (1¾ cups) pumpkin purée (canned or homemade), 250 ml (1 cup) chicken or vegetable broth, 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 1½ tsp fresh sage finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried), ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, salt and black pepper to taste, 20 g (2 tbsp) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined—do not overwork.
- Step 3:
- Shape mixture into 16 18 small meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4:
- Bake for 15 18 minutes, or until meatballs are golden and cooked through.
- Step 5:
- While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté 3 4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Step 6:
- Add pumpkin purée, chicken broth, cream, sage, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 5 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Step 7:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 8:
- Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer together for 2 3 minutes to heat through and blend flavors.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra sage or Parmesan if desired.
Pin This recipe brings warmth to family dinners especially during colder months when everyone gathers around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a heartier meal.
Dietary Notes
Contains eggs, milk (Parmesan, cream), and optionally gluten unless using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge and reheat nicely on a stovetop or microwave.
Pin This simple recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks looking for a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken can be substituted for turkey; it will provide a similar texture and mild flavor.
- → How can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and omit Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.
- → What side dishes pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice complement the meatballs and pumpkin sauce perfectly.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, meatballs and sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- → How to ensure meatballs stay tender?
Mix ingredients gently without overworking and bake until just golden to maintain tenderness.
- → Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?
Yes, dried sage works well; use about one-third of the amount called for fresh sage.
