Save Juicy turkey meatballs simmered in a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce—an easy, comforting dish perfect for fall or any cozy evening.
I enjoy making these meatballs for my family during the cooler months because they fill the house with a wonderful aroma and everyone loves the flavor combination.
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.
Save This dish always brings my family together around the table, sharing stories and enjoying each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge stored in an airtight container.
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, milk (Parmesan, cream), and gluten (breadcrumbs). Always check ingredient labels for allergens if unsure.
Save Enjoy this warm and hearty meal any time you need comfort food made easy.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute ground chicken for turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute and will maintain similar texture and flavor.
- → How can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to complement the creamy pumpkin sage sauce.
- → Are gluten-free breadcrumbs suitable here?
Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used without affecting the texture or flavor significantly.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- → Can I prepare meatballs ahead of time?
The meatballs can be shaped and refrigerated before baking for convenience.