Description
Savory Pumpkin Sage Turkey Meatballs are tender, flavorful bites made with lean ground turkey, pumpkin puree, fresh sage, and Parmesan cheese. These cozy autumn-inspired meatballs are perfectly spiced, juicy, and delicious served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or as an appetizer with creamy dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing or baking spray for oven)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or heat olive oil in a skillet for stovetop cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, pumpkin puree, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, sage, onion powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Mix gently until combined — do not overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs (about 16–18 total).
- To bake: Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- To pan-sear: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
- Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh sage. They pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or a light sage butter sauce.
Notes
- Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Double the recipe and freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 2 months; bake from frozen for an extra 5 minutes.
- These meatballs taste amazing with a brown butter sage sauce or a drizzle of maple mustard glaze.
- For meal prep, store cooked meatballs in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat in sauce or in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course / Appetizer
- Method: Baking or Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: American