Pin Juicy turkey meatballs are simmered in a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sage sauce, capturing the essence of fall. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta for the ultimate comfort meal.
I have always loved how this sauce pairs with the juicy turkey meatballs making it a family favorite every fall.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs: 1.5 lbs (680 g) ground turkey (preferably 93% lean), 1/2 cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg lightly beaten, 1/4 cup (35 g) finely chopped yellow onion, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning)
- For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste
- For Serving and Garnish: Fresh sage leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl gently combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, onion, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined do not overwork.
- Form the Meatballs:
- Shape the mixture into about 24 meatballs (1-inch diameter). Place on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet.
- Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches turning to brown all sides about 2 3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In the same skillet add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté chopped onion over medium heat until soft about 5 minutes. Add garlic cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in pumpkin puree and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook 5 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Add Cream and Seasonings:
- Lower heat add heavy cream, Parmesan, chopped sage, thyme, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer 5 10 minutes stirring until slightly thickened.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce:
- Gently add browned meatballs to the sauce, submerging them. Cover and simmer on low for 15 20 minutes until meatballs reach 165°F (74°C) internally and sauce thickens.
- Check for Doneness:
- Cut one meatball to ensure its cooked through.
- Serve:
- Spoon meatballs and sauce over pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta. Garnish with fresh sage, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Pin 
My family gathers eagerly whenever I make this dish especially as the weather cools down perfect for a cozy dinner.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, large skillet with lid, wooden spoon or spatula, baking sheet or plate, measuring cups and spoons, small cookie scoop (optional), instant-read thermometer (recommended)
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (Parmesan cheese, heavy cream), Egg, Gluten (panko breadcrumbs unless using gluten-free). Always check labels for hidden allergens if substituting ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 355, Total Fat: 20 g, Carbohydrates: 16 g, Protein: 27 g per serving
Pin This recipe delivers cozy fall flavors guaranteed to warm up your family dinners.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I prevent the meatballs from becoming tough?
Mix ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meatball mixture to keep them tender and juicy.
- → What is the best way to brown the meatballs evenly?
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs in batches, turning them to brown all sides for 2–3 minutes per side.
- → Can I substitute the heavy cream in the pumpkin sauce?
Yes, use coconut or cashew cream as dairy-free alternatives while maintaining the sauce’s creamy texture.
- → How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cutting one open to check for doneness also works.
- → What are suitable sides to serve with the meatballs and pumpkin sauce?
Serve over pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or soft polenta for a complete and comforting meal.