If you’re looking for a nutritious and flavorful dinner that feels cozy and satisfying, these homemade pumpkin turkey meatballs are the perfect choice. They combine lean ground turkey with pumpkin puree to create meatballs that are incredibly moist, tender, and packed with warm spices.
The pumpkin adds subtle sweetness, extra nutrition, and keeps the turkey from drying out. These meatballs are high in protein, lower in fat than traditional beef meatballs, and perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or fall-inspired menus.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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High-protein and lean
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Extra juicy thanks to pumpkin puree
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Perfect for fall meals
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Kid-friendly and meal prep friendly
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Baked, not fried
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Freezer-friendly
They’re healthy comfort food at its best.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
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1 pound ground turkey
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½ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
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½ cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for gluten-free)
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Warm Spice Version
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¼ teaspoon ground sage
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¼ teaspoon paprika
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Pinch of nutmeg
For Serving
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Marinara sauce
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Spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or rice
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Fresh parsley
How to Make Pumpkin Turkey Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, pumpkin puree, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs (about 1½ inches). Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Juicy
Bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through and lightly golden.
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve with Sauce
Serve the meatballs with warm marinara sauce over pasta, zucchini noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Tips for the Juiciest Turkey Meatballs
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Use pumpkin puree for moisture
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Don’t overmix the meat
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Bake instead of frying
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Use a cookie scoop for even sizes
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Let them rest for 5 minutes after baking
These tips ensure tender, flavorful meatballs.
Flavor Variations
Fall Harvest Version
Add sage and thyme for warm autumn flavors.
Low-Carb Option
Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Spicy Version
Add red pepper flakes.
Mediterranean Style
Serve with tzatziki instead of marinara.
Meal Prep & Storage
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Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
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Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months
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Reheat in sauce to keep them moist
Perfect for weekly healthy meal prep.
Nutrition Benefits
These pumpkin turkey meatballs are:
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High in protein
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Lower in fat than beef meatballs
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Rich in vitamin A from pumpkin
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Great for balanced meals
A healthy and satisfying option for clean eating.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Turkey Meatballs
Pair them with:
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Whole wheat spaghetti
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Zucchini noodles
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Quinoa
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Roasted vegetables
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Garlic mashed potatoes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they taste like pumpkin?
No, the pumpkin flavor is mild and blends with the spices.
Can I cook them in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F for about 12–14 minutes.
Can I use ground chicken?
Absolutely, it works just as well.
Final Thoughts
These homemade pumpkin turkey meatballs are the perfect combination of healthy, cozy, and delicious. They’re juicy, easy to make, and full of comforting flavors that work all year round — not just in fall.