Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce is one of my favorite cozy meals to make in the fall. I love how the lean, tender turkey meatballs soak up the creamy pumpkin sauce infused with fresh sage. The flavors are warm, savory, and slightly earthy, making this dish perfect for cooler evenings or when I want something comforting yet wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it combines hearty protein with a rich, seasonal sauce. The pumpkin adds natural creaminess without being heavy, and the sage gives it that classic autumn aroma I love. It’s a dish that feels special enough for entertaining but simple enough to whip up on a weeknight.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:
1 pound ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pumpkin Sage Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:
Extra Parmesan, fresh sage leaves, or red pepper flakes

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Meatballs:
I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, I mix the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until combined.
I roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.
I bake for 18–20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and golden.

Make the Pumpkin Sage Sauce:
While the meatballs bake, I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
I sauté the garlic and onion until soft and fragrant.
I stir in the pumpkin puree, broth, cream, sage, and nutmeg.
I let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Combine:
I add the baked turkey meatballs into the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat them evenly.
I let them simmer for 2–3 minutes in the sauce before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is 15 minutes, bake time is 20 minutes, and sauce + finishing takes 10 minutes, so the whole dish is ready in about 45 minutes.

Variations

I like to:

• Use ground chicken instead of turkey for a lighter flavor.

• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

• Add spinach or kale to the sauce for extra greens.

• Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes depending on my mood.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm the meatballs and sauce together on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. I avoid overheating to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, I often bake them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, then reheat in the sauce when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce?

Yes, I freeze the meatballs separately and the sauce in a separate container for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat before combining.

Can I make the sauce without cream?

Yes, I use broth and a splash of coconut milk or oat cream for a lighter option.

Can I cook the meatballs on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes, I pan-sear them in a little oil until browned on all sides and fully cooked.

What can I serve with this dish?

I love serving it with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or even crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Conclusion

Turkey Meatballs in Pumpkin Sage Sauce is a hearty and flavorful recipe that I love making during the fall and winter months. The tender turkey meatballs paired with the creamy pumpkin sage sauce create a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe always feels like a warm, seasonal hug.