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A Delicious Fall Recipe

A Delicious Fall Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 14 reviews

This Turkey Meatballs with Pumpkin Sage Sauce recipe is a comforting and flavorful fall-inspired dish, combining lean ground turkey meatballs with a creamy, aromatic pumpkin sauce infused with fresh sage and warm spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests during the cooler months.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1.5 lbs ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup 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

Pumpkin Sage Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving/Garnish

  • Fresh sage leaves
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands carefully to ensure the ingredients are well distributed without overworking the mixture.
  2. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into about 24 small meatballs, approximately 1-inch in diameter, using your hands or a cookie scoop. Place them on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet.
  3. Brown the Meatballs: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer without overcrowding. Brown them on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Add Pumpkin Puree and Broth: Stir in the pumpkin puree and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Stir in Cream and Seasonings: Lower the heat and mix in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, fresh sage, dried thyme, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened and capable of coating the back of a spoon.
  8. Add Meatballs to Sauce: Carefully place the browned meatballs into the sauce, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
  9. Simmer Until Cooked Through: Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce thickens to desired consistency.
  10. Check for Doneness: Cut open a meatball to confirm it is no longer pink inside; if needed, continue simmering a few more minutes.
  11. Serve: Plate the meatballs with pumpkin sage sauce over your choice of pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta. Garnish with fresh sage leaves, additional grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Notes

  • Using 93% lean ground turkey helps keep meatballs moist while maintaining lower fat content.
  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender and avoid toughness.
  • You can prepare meatballs ahead and refrigerate before browning for convenience.
  • The pumpkin puree adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness complementing the sage; avoid pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices.
  • This dish pairs well with simple sides like egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or creamy polenta.
  • Adjust seasoning and red pepper flakes according to spice tolerance.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, pumpkin sage sauce, fall recipe, easy dinner, healthy meatballs, autumn flavors, ground turkey, creamy pumpkin sauce

Find it online: https://delishfamilyrecipe.com/a-delicious-fall-recipe/