Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a delightful and flavorful dish that will stir up warm feelings of comfort and nostalgia. As you mix the turkey with aromatic herbs and juicy cranberry sauce, you’ll find yourself longing for that home-cooked meal, perfect for any family gathering or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe is uncomplicated and quick, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or festive occasions. With its delicious combination of tender meatballs bathed in a sweet and tangy glaze, this dish is sure to become a favorite around your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a dream come true for anyone seeking an easy-to-make recipe that pleases the entire family. The prep is minimal, allowing you to whip this up in no time. Using lean turkey makes it a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, while the cranberry sauce adds a unique burst of flavor that elevates the dish. Plus, this recipe is a fantastic crowd-pleaser—perfect for holiday gatherings or casual dinners alike.

Ingredients

1 large egg: Provides structure and moisture, ensuring your meatballs are tender and juicy.
3 Tbsp. finely chopped yellow onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the meatballs.
2 Tbsp. whole fat Greek yogurt: Creamy texture that keeps the meatballs moist, along with a slight tanginess.
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves: A fragrant herb that brings earthiness to the dish.
2 tsp. chopped fresh sage leaves: Offers a delightful depth and richness to the flavor profile.
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and complexity to the meatball mixture.
1 tsp. kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper: Gives a gentle kick that enhances the taste.
1 lb. 94 percent lean ground turkey: A healthy and delicious base for your meatballs.
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs: Provides a light, crispy texture to the meatballs.
1 cup canned or homemade cranberry sauce: The star of the dish provides sweetness and tanginess.
1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar: Balances sweetness and adds brightness to the glaze.
1 Tbsp. pure maple syrup: Enhanced natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tartness of cranberries.
1 Tbsp. whole grain mustard: Adds a hint of spice and depth.
1 tsp. finely grated orange zest: Brightens the dish with a refreshing citrus note.
1/4 tsp. kosher salt: For the sauce, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Freshly ground black pepper: To taste; elevates the flavor.
2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil: For frying the meatballs until golden brown.
Mashed potatoes, for serving: A comforting side that complements the delicious meatballs.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: In a large bowl, crack the egg and beat it with a fork until blended. Add the finely chopped onion, Greek yogurt, thyme, sage, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Beat with a fork to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 2: Now, add the ground turkey and panko bread crumbs into your mixture. Using clean hands, mix everything together gently until just combined, ensuring not to overmix.

Step 3: Form the turkey mixture into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a large plate. Once completed, cover the plate and refrigerate the meatballs for about 15 minutes to chill, which helps them hold their shape while cooking.

Step 4: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, whole grain mustard, orange zest, kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Heat the olive oil in a high-sided 12" cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Carefully place the meatballs in the pan, cooking until the bottom is golden brown, about 4 minutes. Turn the meatballs and continue to cook until the other side is browned, an additional 3 minutes.

Step 6: Add the cranberry sauce mixture to the skillet and gently stir the meatballs until they are well coated in sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce thickens and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the meatballs reads 165 degrees, about 3 to 5 minutes more.

Step 7: To serve, divide the creamy mashed potatoes among plates and top with the turkey meatballs and sauce for a delightful feast.

Tips & Tricks

Don’t Skip Chilling: Refrigerating the meatballs before cooking helps maintain their shape and ensures a juicy texture.
Try Alternatives: If you’re out of turkey, ground chicken or even plant-based alternatives can work well to create delicious meatballs.
Sugar Adjustments: For a less sweet sauce, reduce the quantity of maple syrup according to your preference.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like rosemary or dill for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatballs shine bright when served over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes, which soak up the vibrant sauce beautifully. For a balanced meal, consider adding a side of steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, as an appetizer at parties, or simply for a cozy family dinner.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (about 4 meatballs with sauce and mashed potatoes), you can expect the following nutritional content:

Calories: Approximately 350-400
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g

This meal provides a well-rounded balance of nutrition, featuring lean protein from turkey, healthy fats, and hearty carbohydrates from potatoes.

Storing Tips & Variations

Storing: Keep leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: Arrange uncooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag for long-term storage. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, cook from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or simmering in sauce until heated through.

Variations: Switch it up by using different sauces such as barbecue or sweet and sour for a unique twist or serve them as sliders on whole-grain buns for a fun party appetizer.

Conclusion

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a delicious, family-friendly dish that anyone can make. With their tender texture and flavorful glaze, they are sure to impress at any dinner table. We invite you to try this recipe and let the tangy-sweet glaze tantalize your taste buds. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations in the comments!

FAQs

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and keep them refrigerated before cooking. Alternatively, they freeze well too!

2. What can I substitute for panko bread crumbs?
Regular bread crumbs can be used, but panko provides a lighter, crispier texture which is preferable.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well.

4. Can I use another meat instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or lean beef can work well. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary.

5. How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
You can modify the amount of maple syrup or even use less cranberry sauce for a less sweet result. Alternatively, adding a bit more vinegar can help brighten the flavors without increasing sweetness.