Cranberry Turkey Meatballs
These Cranberry Turkey Meatballs are a delicious blend of savory and sweet perfect for holiday gatherings meal prep or a simple family dinner. The juicy turkey meatballs are seasoned with herbs and garlic then baked to perfection and coated in a tangy cranberry glaze. They’re an excellent alternative to classic meatballs and a great way to add festive flavors to your table. Serve them as an appetizer a party snack or over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
1 lb 450g ground turkey
½ cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
1 egg
1 small onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp dried sage optional
¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional for extra flavor
For the Cranberry Glaze
1 cup cranberry sauce store-bought or homemade
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
½ tsp red pepper flakes optional for a spicy kick
Instructions
Step 1 Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F 200°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2 Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl combine the ground turkey breadcrumbs egg onion garlic salt pepper thyme sage parsley and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated but don’t overmix as this can make the meatballs dense.
Step 3 Form the Meatballs
Using your hands or a cookie scoop form small meatballs about 1-inch in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should get about 20-24 meatballs.
Step 4 Bake the Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F 74°C when checked with a meat thermometer.
Step 5 Prepare the Cranberry Glaze
While the meatballs are baking prepare the cranberry glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat combine cranberry sauce honey or maple syrup Dijon mustard apple cider vinegar and red pepper flakes. Stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 6 Coat the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are done baking transfer them to a bowl and pour the warm cranberry glaze over them. Toss gently to coat evenly.
Step 7 Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with extra chopped parsley and serve with extra cranberry sauce on the side. Enjoy as an appetizer with rice or over mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Turkey Meatballs
Use Ground Turkey with Some Fat
Lean turkey 93 percent lean 7 percent fat works best for juicy meatballs. If using extra-lean turkey add a bit of olive oil or an extra egg yolk to keep them moist.
Don’t Overmix the Meat
Mixing too much will make the meatballs tough. Stir just until the ingredients come together.
Chill the Meatballs Before Baking
For firmer meatballs chill them for 15 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape.
Make it Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute.
Try Air-Frying or Pan-Frying
For a crispier texture air-fry at 375°F 190°C for 12-15 minutes shaking halfway through. Alternatively pan-fry in a little oil over medium heat until golden brown.
Make Ahead and Store
Fridge Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer Freeze the baked meatballs without sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave then toss with fresh cranberry sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions Q&A
Can I use another type of meat
Yes Ground chicken pork or beef can be used instead of turkey. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
How do I make homemade cranberry sauce
Simmer 1 cup fresh cranberries ½ cup sugar ½ cup water and 1 tbsp orange juice for about 10 minutes until thickened.
What can I serve with these meatballs
They pair well with mashed potatoes rice roasted vegetables or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time
Yes You can bake them and refrigerate them for up to 4 days then reheat and toss with fresh cranberry sauce.
Can I use frozen meatballs
Yes If using pre-cooked frozen meatballs bake them as directed and toss in the cranberry glaze.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx. 4 Meatballs)
Calories: 220-250
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 350mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g
Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used. If using extra-lean turkey or sugar-free cranberry sauce the calorie and fat content will be lower.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Turkey Meatballs are a perfect balance of sweet and savory making them a great option for holiday feasts casual dinners or party appetizers. They’re easy to make healthy and packed with flavor.
Whether you serve them as a main dish with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables or as a finger food for gatherings they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Plus you can make them ahead of time freeze them for later or customize them to your taste.