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.
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
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.
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.