A Delicious Fall Recipe

If you’re craving something that perfectly captures the warmth and comfort of autumn, then these Turkey Meatballs with Pumpkin Sage Sauce are exactly what you need. This is truly A Delicious Fall Recipe that brings together tender, flavorful turkey meatballs swimming in a rich, creamy pumpkin sauce dotted with aromatic sage and a hint of nutmeg. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with cozy scents and your heart with happiness, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for any fall meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this recipe. Each item plays a special role—from the lean ground turkey that keeps these meatballs juicy without heaviness to the pumpkin puree that adds creamy depth and that unmistakable touch of fall color and flavor. The fresh herbs really elevate the experience by infusing warmth and earthiness that complements every bite.

• Ground turkey (1.5 lbs, 93% lean): The perfect lean protein base that stays tender in the meatballs.
• Panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Adds lightness and a subtle crunch to your meatballs.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup for meatballs + 1/4 cup for sauce): Brings a savory, nutty depth to both the meatballs and the sauce.
• Egg (1 large, lightly beaten): Helps bind the meatball mixture together for perfectly shaped bites.
• Yellow onion (1/4 cup finely chopped + 1 small finely chopped): Adds sweetness and a tender savory crunch both inside the meatballs and in the sauce.
• Garlic cloves (2 minced for meatballs + 2 minced for sauce): Provides an irresistible aromatic punch throughout.
• Fresh sage (1 tablespoon chopped + 2 tablespoons chopped): The star herb bringing that quintessential fall flavor.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Enhances the earthiness with subtle herbaceous notes.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used to brown meatballs and saute aromatics for that golden, flavorful start.
• Pumpkin puree (1 can, 15 oz): The creamy, velvety base for a uniquely delicious sauce (not pumpkin pie filling!).
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds moisture and depth to the sauce, keeping it savory and balanced.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the pumpkin sauce luxuriously smooth and rich.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Brings a warm, cozy spice that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Fresh sage leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes for garnish: Final touches to elevate presentation and flavor.

How to Make A Delicious Fall Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gently bring together the ground turkey, panko, Parmesan, egg, onions, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to fold everything until evenly mixed. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your meatballs tender and light.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into about 24 small, one-inch meatballs using your hands or a cookie scoop. Placing them on parchment-lined trays makes it easy to transfer them to the pan later.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then carefully place the meatballs in a single layer. Brown them on all sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side, in batches if necessary. This step locks in flavor and gives a beautiful golden crust that adds texture contrast.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet you browned the meatballs, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add the garlic and cook for another minute until it smells heavenly.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree and Chicken Broth

Stir in the pumpkin puree and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors mingle for about 5 minutes, which forms the comforting base of your sauce.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Seasonings

Turn the heat down to low and mix in the heavy cream, Parmesan, chopped sage, thyme, and a pinch of nutmeg. Taste and season with salt and pepper to perfect the balance. This rich, creamy sauce is exactly what makes this a A Delicious Fall Recipe worth savoring.

Step 7: Simmer the Sauce

Let the sauce gently bubble for 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This slow simmer lets the flavors deepen and the sauce achieve the perfect velvety texture.

Step 8: Add Meatballs to the Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Carefully nestle the browned meatballs back into the sauce so they’re mostly submerged. This allows each meatball to soak in the creaminess and spice of the pumpkin sage sauce.

Step 9: Simmer Until Cooked Through

Cover the skillet and let everything cook on low for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step ensures the turkey meatballs reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and become tender as they absorb the sauce’s flavors.

Step 10: Check for Doneness

Cut a meatball in half to double-check there’s no pink inside. If needed, simmer a few more minutes. Once done, your turkey meatballs will be juicy, tender, and infused with that rich pumpkin sage magic that makes this A Delicious Fall Recipe stand out.

Step 11: Serve

Dish up the meatballs over your favorite base or serve them as an appetizer with elegant garnishes. The versatility here means everyone can enjoy this cozy fall treat their way.

How to Serve A Delicious Fall Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh sage leaves add a burst of herbal brightness and a beautiful contrast to the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan introduces a salty, nutty accent, while a pinch of red pepper flakes brings a playful kick that livens up the dish.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs incredibly well with simple sides like buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, both perfect for soaking up the luscious pumpkin sage sauce. Or toss some buttered pasta in the mix for a classic comfort twist that everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, serve the meatballs on small wooden boards or in rustic bowls, garnished with sage sprigs and Parmesan. For a party appetizer, toothpicks make the meatballs easy to pick up, and a small drizzle of sauce on each plate adds charm and extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely, then transfer them into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. This makes for easy lunches or quick dinners that taste just as good the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the meatballs separately by placing them on a tray until solid, then transferring to a zip-top bag. The sauce can be frozen in a separate container. Both will keep well for up to 3 months. Defrost thoroughly in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it. This preserves the creamy texture and fresh flavor of this A Delicious Fall Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great lean alternative and will work similarly in terms of texture and cooking time, keeping this recipe light and healthy.

Is pumpkin puree different from pumpkin pie filling?

Yes! Pumpkin puree is plain cooked pumpkin without added spices or sugar, which makes it perfect for savory dishes like this sauce. Pumpkin pie filling is pre-seasoned and sweetened, so it’s best avoided here.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The meatballs will still come out deliciously tender.

What if I don’t have fresh sage?

You can substitute with dried sage, using about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh herbs, however, give a brighter and fresher flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe itself is mild and comforting, but the optional red pepper flakes garnish adds a nice gentle heat for those who like a bit of spice without overpowering the delicate pumpkin flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about this A Delicious Fall Recipe that brings together the best of the season’s flavors in one hearty dish. These turkey meatballs in creamy pumpkin sage sauce are a must-try for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you need a bowl of comfort. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this recipe as much as I do—it’s pure fall happiness on a plate!

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