Save Juicy turkey meatballs simmered in a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce—an easy, comforting dish perfect for fall or any cozy evening.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite during chilly autumn nights.
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Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) ground turkey: for the meatballs
- 1 large egg: binder
- 60 g (½ cup) breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired): texture
- 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese: flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: aroma
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried): freshness
- ½ tsp salt: seasoning
- ¼ tsp black pepper: seasoning
- 2 tbsp milk: moisture
- 1 tbsp olive oil: for sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: for sauce
- 400 g (1¾ cups) pumpkin purée (canned or homemade): base for sauce
- 250 ml (1 cup) chicken or vegetable broth: sauce liquid
- 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream: richness
- 1½ tsp fresh sage, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried): herb flavor
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg: warm spice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: seasoning
- 20 g (2 tbsp) grated Parmesan cheese: added to sauce
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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 My family loves sitting around the table enjoying this warm, hearty meal together.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a satisfying dish.
Variations
Substitute ground chicken for turkey or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 385 calories, 22 g total fat, 16 g carbohydrates, and 30 g protein.
Save
This dish brings cozy comfort with minimal effort and delightful flavors every time.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I substitute chicken for turkey in this dish?
Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute, maintaining similar texture and flavor balance.
- → What can I serve alongside these meatballs?
These meatballs pair nicely with mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed rice to round out the meal.
- → How can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and omit Parmesan cheese to create a creamy, dairy-free sauce.
- → Are gluten-free breadcrumbs suitable here?
Yes, using gluten-free breadcrumbs ensures the dish remains gluten-free without altering texture.
- → How long does the dish keep after cooking?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently before serving.