Description
These Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce are a cozy fall dinner dream come true. Juicy, herbed turkey meatballs are pan-fried and simmered in a rich, creamy pumpkin sauce infused with fresh sage, parmesan, and a hint of maple syrup. It’s a comforting, protein-rich dish perfect for chilly evenings, elegant enough for guests, and simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Turkey Meatballs:
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1½ cups fresh or panko breadcrumbs
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3 tbsp milk
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½ cup finely minced onion
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tbsp chopped fresh sage
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1 tbsp chopped parsley
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1½ tsp Italian seasoning
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½ cup grated parmesan
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1 whole egg + 1 yolk
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1½ lbs ground dark turkey (93/7 lean)
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1¼ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Olive or avocado oil for cooking
For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce:
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2 tbsp ghee or unsalted butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
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½ cup finely minced onion
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6 garlic cloves, pressed
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2 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 can (15 oz) + 1 cup pumpkin puree
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1½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1¾ cups chicken stock
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½ cup grated parmesan
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¼ cup heavy cream
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2 tbsp maple syrup
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1 tbsp chopped fresh sage
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Optional: Fried sage leaves for garnish
Instructions
For the Meatballs:
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Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 2–3 minutes. Stir in onion, garlic, herbs, seasoning, parmesan, egg, and yolk.
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Add ground turkey, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined. Scoop into ~2 tbsp portions.
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Freeze on a tray for 20–25 minutes to firm. Roll into balls.
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Pan-fry in hot skillet with oil until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Set aside.
For the Sauce:
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In the same skillet, heat ghee and olive oil. Sauté onion 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and Italian seasoning.
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Stir in pumpkin puree, salt, pepper, and chicken stock. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
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Remove from heat. Stir in parmesan, cream, maple syrup, and fresh sage.
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Return meatballs to skillet. Spoon sauce over them. Simmer a few minutes until heated through.
Notes
Use dark meat turkey for tender, juicy meatballs.
Chilling helps the meatballs keep their shape while frying.
Double the sauce if serving with pasta or bread.
Substitute butter for ghee if needed.
For dairy-free, use plant-based cream and vegan parmesan.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Plats
- Method: Pan-Fried + Simmered
- Cuisine: American