There’s something magical about the flavors of fall, especially when you combine the heartiness of ground turkey with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin. Pumpkin turkey meatballs with harvest tomato sauce are a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a dinner, or simply craving a cozy, comforting dish, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pumpkin turkey meatballs are:

• Healthy and packed with nutrients like lean protein and vitamin-rich pumpkin.
• Bursting with flavor, thanks to a perfect blend of spices.
• Easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile, as they pair well with pasta, salads, or as appetizers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is a comprehensive list of ingredients for the meatballs and suggestions for pairing with a delicious harvest tomato sauce:

For the Meatballs:

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground turkey	1 lb
Pumpkin puree	½ cup
Almond flour	½ cup
Parmesan cheese (optional)	¼ cup
Egg	1 large
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Onion powder	1 tsp
Dried oregano	1 tsp
Salt	1 tsp
Black pepper	½ tsp
Paprika	½ tsp

For the Harvest Tomato Sauce (Optional):

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Crushed tomatoes	1 can (14 oz)
Pumpkin puree	¼ cup
Dried thyme	1 tsp
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste

How to Make Pumpkin Turkey Meatballs with Harvest Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, pumpkin puree, almond flour, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
2. Add the egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all ingredients are fully combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

1. Scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture for each meatball.
2. Roll the mixture between your palms to form balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

Step 5: Prepare the Harvest Tomato Sauce (Optional)

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and pumpkin puree.
4. Season with dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the meatballs and spoon the harvest tomato sauce over them.
2. Serve with pasta, zucchini noodles, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (4 meatballs):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	2g
Carbohydrates	6g
Protein	24g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Turkey Meatballs

• Don’t skip the almond flour: It helps bind the meatballs while keeping them gluten-free and low-carb.
• Use a cookie scoop: This ensures evenly sized meatballs that cook uniformly.
• Add a twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
• Freeze for later: These meatballs freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

FAQs About Pumpkin Turkey Meatballs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey? Yes, ground chicken works as a great substitute for turkey in this recipe.

2. Can I make these meatballs dairy-free? Absolutely! Omit the Parmesan cheese and ensure any accompanying sauces are dairy-free.

3. How should I store leftovers? Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

4. Can I pan-fry these meatballs instead of baking them? Yes, pan-frying is an option. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.

5. What other sauces pair well with these meatballs? Try pairing them with tzatziki, pesto, or a creamy garlic sauce for different flavor profiles.

6. Can I make mini meatballs for appetizers? Yes! Simply roll smaller meatballs and reduce the baking time to 15-18 minutes

Why These Meatballs Are Perfect for Fall

Pumpkin turkey meatballs are the ultimate autumn dish. The subtle sweetness of pumpkin, combined with savory spices, creates a comforting flavor that celebrates the season. They’re nutritious, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Start Cooking Today

Ready to enjoy the cozy flavors of pumpkin turkey meatballs with harvest tomato sauce? Gather your ingredients and get started. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, these meatballs are a delicious and satisfying choice. Share your creation with friends and savor the taste of fall!

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