Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Turn your holiday table into a feast of flavor with these Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs. Juicy turkey meatballs are coated in a tangy-sweet cranberry glaze, creating a dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or a festive main course.

These meatballs are light yet flavorful, with a hint of seasonal spices that pair beautifully with the zesty glaze. The cranberry sauce is a delightful mix of sweet, tart, and savory, making these meatballs a standout at any gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, need a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, or simply want to add a seasonal twist to dinner, these meatballs are an easy and delicious option. Plus, they’re baked, making them healthier without sacrificing taste.

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• Holiday Ready: Packed with festive flavors that complement any holiday spread.
• Juicy and Tender: Turkey meatballs are perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection.
• Zesty Cranberry Glaze: A tangy-sweet sauce that elevates every bite.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, over rice, or as part of a main course.

Exciting Story

The first time I made these Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs, it was for a holiday potluck. I wanted to bring something seasonal yet different from the usual casseroles and pies. The combination of juicy turkey and tangy cranberry glaze was an instant hit.

As I placed the dish on the table, the vibrant red glaze caught everyone’s attention. One bite was all it took to win over the crowd—several people asked for the recipe before the night was over! Since then, these meatballs have become a holiday tradition in our home.

Why These Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Festive and Flavorful: A perfect blend of seasonal spices and a bright cranberry glaze.
• Healthier Option: Made with lean turkey and baked instead of fried.
• Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare, yet impressive enough for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for appetizers, parties, or family dinners.

What You Need for Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cranberry Glaze:

• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

How to Make Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

1. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Glaze

1. While the meatballs bake, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and ginger.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Glaze

1. Add the cooked meatballs to the saucepan with the cranberry glaze. Toss gently to coat each meatball evenly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme. Serve warm as an appetizer or over rice or mashed potatoes as a main course.

Tips for Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

1. Chill the Mixture: Refrigerating the meatball mixture for 10-15 minutes makes it easier to shape.
2. Use a Cookie Scoop: This ensures uniform meatballs and even cooking.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different Proteins: Use ground chicken, beef, or pork instead of turkey.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for heat.
• Alternative Sweetener: Substitute honey with brown sugar or agave syrup.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lean Turkey: Opt for 93% lean turkey for less fat without sacrificing flavor.
• Natural Sweetener: Use pure maple syrup or a natural sugar substitute in the glaze.
• Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt.

Closing for Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

And there you have it—Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs, a festive and flavorful dish that’s perfect for the holiday season. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these meatballs are sure to impress your family and friends. Try them out, and don’t forget to explore our other holiday recipes for more delicious inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions for Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare and bake the meatballs in advance. Reheat them in the cranberry glaze before serving.
2. Can I freeze these meatballs?
   Absolutely! Freeze the baked meatballs (without the glaze) in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
3. What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?
   Pomegranate or cherry sauce can be used as a delicious alternative.
4. Can I cook these meatballs in a slow cooker?
   Yes, cook the meatballs first, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the glaze and heat on low for 2-3 hours.
5. What sides pair well with these meatballs?
   Mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables are excellent accompaniments.
6. How do I make the glaze thicker?
   Simmer the glaze for an extra few minutes to reduce and thicken it.
7. Can I use fresh cranberries for the glaze?
   Yes, cook fresh cranberries with sugar and water until soft, then use as a base for the glaze.
8. Can I make these meatballs dairy-free?
   Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free substitute.
9. How do I keep the meatballs from drying out?
   Avoid overbaking and use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked to 165°F (74°C).
10. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, simply double the ingredients to make a larger batch.