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Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Cozy Up with Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce

Delightful Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce offer a cozy autumn meal, perfect for busy nights and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Turkey A lean protein that keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
  • 1 cup Fresh Breadcrumbs Provides structure and helps retain moisture; substitute with panko if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup Milk Soaks into breadcrumbs, making the meatballs extra tender; non-dairy options work too.
  • 1 large Eggs Binds everything together; using one whole egg plus an egg yolk adds richness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best for its bold impact.
  • 1 small Onion Diced aromatics that enhance flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Sage A key herb that brings an autumn flair; use dried sage if fresh isn't available.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Adds depth and warmth to the meat mixture; store-bought for convenience.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Infuses savory richness; can be omitted for a dairy-free dish.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Canned Pumpkin Puree The heart of the sauce, offering creaminess and seasonal flavor; ensure you are using pure pumpkin.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Contributes to the sauce’s creaminess; a dairy-free creamer can be a lighter substitute.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors.
  • to taste Pepper Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Pot
  • parchment-lined baking sheet

Method
 

Turkey Meatballs Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, gently soak the fresh breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until softened. Then, add the ground turkey, minced garlic, diced onion, fresh sage, Italian seasoning, one whole egg, and an egg yolk. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, then mix everything together using your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep your turkey meatballs tender.
  2. Lightly shape the mixture into medium-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, gently place the meatballs in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they achieve a golden brown color and are cooked through.
  4. In a separate pot, combine the canned pumpkin puree, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh sage, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir them together and cook gently for about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Add the cooked turkey meatballs back into the warm pumpkin sage sauce. Gently stir to coat each meatball thoroughly, allowing them to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. To serve, dish out the turkey meatballs alongside or over your favorite pasta, gnocchi, or mashed potatoes. Ladle extra pumpkin sage sauce on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 2meatballsCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 28gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Be gentle when mixing the meatball ingredients and avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce to meld flavors beautifully.

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