Description
Delicious and comforting Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs in a rich and creamy sage-infused sauce. These baked meatballs combine tender ground chicken with pumpkin puree and warm spices, then are topped with a luscious cream sauce featuring fresh sage, garlic, and Parmesan. Perfect as a hearty dinner or special occasion meal.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground chicken
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
Sage Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound ground chicken, ½ cup pumpkin puree, ½ cup plain breadcrumbs, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, ¼ cup finely diced onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into about 16 equal-sized meatballs. Arrange them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush or drizzle the tops with 2 tablespoons olive oil to help them brown nicely while baking.
- Bake the Meatballs: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking sheet with the prepared meatballs into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meatballs are lightly browned on the outside.
- Make the Sage Cream Sauce: While the meatballs bake, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and let it simmer gently for 3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Whisk continuously until the sauce is smooth and has thickened slightly.
- Finish the Dish: Once meatballs are baked, transfer them carefully to the skillet with the sage cream sauce. Spoon sauce over each meatball and simmer together for 5 minutes to warm the meatballs through and meld the flavors. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh sage if desired.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs.
- Use fresh sage for the best flavor; dried sage can be substituted but in smaller amounts.
- Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- The sauce can be adjusted to your preferred thickness by simmering longer or adding a splash of chicken broth.
- These meatballs can be served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American