Description
Cranberry Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup chicken broth
Directions
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
Form & Bake: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Make the Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberry sauce and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and heated through.
Coat Meatballs: Transfer the baked meatballs to a serving dish and drizzle with the cranberry glaze. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 (approx. 16 meatballs)
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect meatballs every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured. When mixing the turkey, use your hands or a fork and combine until just incorporated; overmixing makes the meatballs tough. For uniform size, use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon measure. Space meatballs evenly on the parchment-lined sheet to allow for even browning and air circulation. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for doneness. For the glaze, whisk the cranberry sauce and broth continuously over medium-low heat until it forms a smooth, pourable consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile meatballs can be served in multiple ways. For a holiday appetizer, spear them with toothpicks and serve warm from the glaze. As a main course, pair them with mashed sweet potatoes, roasted green beans, or a wild rice pilaf. For a festive party dish, keep them warm in a slow cooker with extra glaze. They also make an excellent sandwich filling in a hoagie roll with arugula and a swipe of cream cheese.
How-to Summary
Combine turkey, cranberries, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Form into 1-inch balls and bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes. Simultaneously, warm cranberry sauce with chicken broth to create a simple 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 can affect the meatball texture and cooking time. Dried cranberries provide the right sweetness and chewy texture.
- 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 uncooked meatballs on a sheet pan, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months; bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
- What can I substitute for breadcrumbs? For a gluten-free option, use an equal amount of rolled oats pulsed in a food processor, or almond flour. For a lower-carb version, crushed pork rinds work well.
- My glaze is too thick. How can I thin it? Simply add more chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time, while warming the sauce, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Can I cook these on the stovetop instead? Absolutely. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until cooked through. Proceed with the glaze.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overmixing the meatball ingredients, as this develops the proteins and results in dense, rubbery meatballs.
- Do not skip lining the baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Ensure your dried cranberries are chopped. Whole cranberries can create pockets of intense sweetness and may cause the meatball to fall apart.
- Do not overcrowd the meatballs on the baking sheet, as they will steam instead of roast and won’t develop a nice golden exterior.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Turkey Meatballs are a perfect blend of savory and sweet, offering a healthier twist on a classic comfort food. They are surprisingly simple to prepare, making them ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With the ability to make them ahead and versatile serving options, this recipe is sure to become a reliable favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and the ease of this crowd-pleasing dish.