Description
Cranberry Turkey Meatballs with Sweet & Savory Glaze
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground turkey
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Glaze:
½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, chopped cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Shape & Bake
Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
Prepare the Glaze
While the meatballs are baking, whisk together cranberry sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat until smooth and slightly thickened.
Glaze the Meatballs
Transfer baked meatballs to a serving dish and drizzle with the warm glaze. Toss gently to coat.
Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve as an appetizer or pair with mashed potatoes for a comforting main dish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your baking sheet. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped dried cranberries, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Using your hands or a fork, mix the ingredients until just combined; overmixing will result in tough meatballs. Roll the mixture into uniform 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. While they bake, combine the glaze ingredients in a saucepan, heating and whisking until smooth. Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a bowl, pour the warm glaze over them, and toss gently to coat evenly before garnishing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile meatballs can be served in several ways. For a festive appetizer, spear them with toothpicks and serve warm from a platter. As a main course, pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or a wild rice pilaf to soak up the extra glaze. They also make an excellent addition to a holiday buffet or a unique topping for a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad.
How-to Summary
Mix turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, cranberries, and seasonings. Form into 1-inch balls and bake at 375°F for 18-20 minutes. Simultaneously, heat cranberry sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, and vinegar to create a glaze. Toss the baked meatballs in the glaze and garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried? No, fresh cranberries are too tart and contain too much moisture, which would alter the meatball’s texture and flavor. Stick with dried cranberries for the right balance of sweetness and chew.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the raw meatballs and refrigerate them on a baking sheet, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze unbaked meatballs on a sheet pan, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
What can I substitute for the breadcrumbs? For a gluten-free option, use an equal amount of gluten-free breadcrumbs, rolled oats, or almond flour. Panko breadcrumbs will yield a slightly crispier texture.
My glaze is too thick. How can I thin it? Add a tablespoon of water, orange juice, or low-sodium chicken broth to the saucepan and whisk until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I cook these in an air fryer? Absolutely. Arrange meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray lightly with oil, and cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until cooked through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meatball Mixture: This activates the proteins in the turkey, leading to dense, rubbery meatballs. Mix until ingredients are just incorporated.
- Using Lean Ground Turkey Breast: Opt for ground turkey that includes some dark meat (often labeled 93/7) for more flavor and moisture. Extra-lean meat can become dry.
- Not Chopping the Dried Cranberries: Leaving them whole can make the meatballs difficult to shape and result in uneven flavor distribution. Always chop them finely.
- Skipping the Internal Temperature Check: Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked poultry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Turkey Meatballs with Sweet & Savory Glaze are a perfect fusion of festive flavor and simple preparation. They offer a lighter, creative twist on traditional meatballs, making them ideal for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or elegant appetizers. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve tender, flavorful meatballs coated in a glossy, irresistible glaze every time. This recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.