Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Introduction

There’s something about meatballs that just makes everything better. And when you add a tangy cranberry glaze to turkey meatballs, you’ve got yourself a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, a special holiday gathering, or an easy meal prep for the week ahead, these cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs are the perfect combination of savory and sweet.

What makes this recipe so special is the balance of flavors. The turkey meatballs are tender and juicy, and the cranberry glaze provides the perfect pop of sweetness and tartness. The glaze, with its rich cranberry flavor, complements the lean turkey, making these meatballs feel indulgent without being heavy. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, which means they’re on the lighter side, yet still full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs is a game-changer. Here’s why:

• Easy to make: You won’t need hours of prep or complicated ingredients. With just a few simple ingredients, these meatballs come together quickly and easily. The glaze is made with cranberry sauce, which means you can use store-bought to save time or make your own for an extra special touch.
• Family-friendly: These meatballs are perfect for kids and adults alike. They’re mild enough for little ones who might shy away from stronger flavors but still packed with enough taste to please grown-ups. Plus, the sweet cranberry glaze adds a fun twist that makes them a hit at any gathering.
• Tender & juicy turkey meatballs: The lean turkey keeps these meatballs light but still full of flavor. The breadcrumbs and egg help keep the texture tender, while the cranberry glaze adds an irresistible finish.
• Versatile: Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, a side, or as part of an appetizer spread, these meatballs fit in everywhere. They’re just as delicious over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice as they are alongside your favorite roasted veggies.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 45 minutes (15 minutes prep, 30 minutes cook time)
• Servings: Makes about 24 meatballs, serving 4-6 people.
• Nutrition Facts: Calories per serving: 300, Protein: 25g, Carbs: 30g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey – Lean turkey keeps the meatballs tender and light.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – For binding the meatballs and ensuring they stay juicy.
• 1 egg – Helps bind everything together and gives the meatballs their structure.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and richness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For savory flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a bit of fresh herbiness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.

cranberry glaze:

• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought) – This will be the base of your glaze. It adds sweetness and tartness.
• 2 tbsp honey – To balance out the tartness of the cranberries.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity and helps thicken the glaze.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard – Adds depth and a little bit of tang.
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon – For a warm, seasonal touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1st Step: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure the meatballs don’t stick. This is the perfect temperature to get the meatballs perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

2nd Step: Make the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overmix, as that can result in tough meatballs. The mixture should be moist and easy to shape.

3rd Step: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and gently roll it into a ball. Aim for golf ball-sized meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). You should be able to make about 24 meatballs from this mixture. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

4th Step: Bake the Meatballs

Pop the meatballs in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F is ideal). While the meatballs are baking, make the cranberry glaze.

5th Step: Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberry sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. You should be left with a glossy, flavorful glaze.

6th Step: Coat the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven. Drizzle or brush the cranberry glaze generously over each meatball. You can also toss the meatballs in the glaze if you prefer a more even coating. Make sure each meatball gets a nice coating of that beautiful cranberry glaze.

7th Step: Serve

Serve the cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs immediately, or let them rest for a few minutes to allow the glaze to set. You can garnish with extra parsley if you like for a little pop of color.

How to Serve

These cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs are versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve over mashed potatoes: The rich, tart glaze pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, creating the perfect comfort food combo.
• With rice: Serve them over a bed of fluffy white rice or wild rice for a satisfying meal.
• As appetizers: Perfect for a party, serve these meatballs on toothpicks with extra cranberry glaze on the side for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a light and refreshing side to balance out the richness of the meatballs.

Additional Tips

To make sure your cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs turn out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips:

• Don’t overmix: When mixing the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture. Gently combine everything to keep the meatballs light and tender.
• Moisture matters: If your turkey is a little too lean, consider adding a tablespoon or two of olive oil to the mixture to keep the meatballs moist.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs: If you have the time, use fresh breadcrumbs for a more tender texture. If you’re using store-bought, try to get panko breadcrumbs for extra crispness.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
• Glaze tips: For a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce a little longer. If you like a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce.

Recipe Variations

While this cranberry-glazed turkey meatball recipe is delicious as is, you can make a few changes to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground turkey with a mixture of cooked lentils and finely chopped mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based version of these meatballs.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of traditional breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Spicy twist: If you like things with a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry glaze or the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheese-stuffed: Add a cube of mozzarella cheese inside each meatball for a melty surprise when you bite into them.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal complete, consider pairing your cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs with a few of these side dishes:

• Roasted vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes make a hearty and flavorful side.
• Garlic bread: A slice of garlic bread will soak up all that delicious cranberry glaze.
• Side salad: Pair the meatballs with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast to the rich, savory meatballs.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey? Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for ground turkey. It will yield similar results, so you can use it in the same quantities as the turkey in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground chicken might be slightly leaner than turkey, so you may want to add a small amount of olive oil to keep the meatballs juicy.

2. Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time? Yes! The cranberry glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply cook it as instructed and allow it to cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to use it, reheat it gently over low heat.

3. Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the meatballs either before or after cooking. To freeze uncooked meatballs, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, just bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If you’re freezing cooked meatballs, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container or bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months.

4. How can I make the glaze thicker? If you prefer a thicker glaze, simply simmer it for a few more minutes. The longer you cook the glaze, the more it will reduce and thicken. If it’s still too thin, you can also add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to help thicken it.

5. Can I use homemade cranberry sauce for the glaze? Yes! Homemade cranberry sauce is a wonderful choice for the glaze. Just be sure to make the cranberry sauce first, and then follow the rest of the glaze instructions as written. Homemade cranberry sauce can add a more vibrant, fresh flavor to the glaze.

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Conclusion

These cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs are the perfect combination of savory and sweet. With their juicy turkey center and rich cranberry glaze, they’re sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or gathering. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or over mashed potatoes for a full meal, they’re versatile and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. So give this recipe a try, and enjoy the flavor explosion of these irresistible turkey meatballs!