Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, bringing a burst of flavor and nutrition to your table. The combination of turkey and tart cranberry glaze makes for a deliciously festive meal, perfect for any occasion.
These meatballs are not just tasty, but they are also healthy, offering lean protein without excess fat. Plus, they are simple to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting family dinner.
Equipment Needed for Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
To make Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs, you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment. Here are the basics you’ll need:
- A large mixing bowl
- A fork for mixing
- A large plate for resting the meatballs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A medium bowl for the sauce
- A high-sided cast-iron or nonstick skillet
- A serving spoon
- An instant-read thermometer, if desired
What You Need to Make Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
- 1 large egg
- 3 Tbsp. finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 Tbsp. whole-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tsp. chopped fresh sage leaves
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lb. (94% lean) ground turkey
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup canned or homemade cranberry sauce
- 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp. pure maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp. whole grain mustard
- 1 tsp. finely grated orange zest
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- Mashed potatoes, for serving
How to Cook Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs Step by Step
To start, crack the egg into a large bowl and beat it with a fork until it is blended well. Then, add the finely chopped onion, whole-fat Greek yogurt, chopped thyme, chopped sage, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl. Use the fork to mix these ingredients together until they are well combined.
Next, add the ground turkey and panko bread crumbs to the mixture. It’s best to use your clean hands to mix everything thoroughly. Once everything is mixed, form the turkey mixture into tablespoon-sized balls, ensuring they are evenly shaped. Once shaped, transfer the meatballs to a large plate, cover them, and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to chill.
While the meatballs chill, prepare the cranberry sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, apple cider vinegar, pure maple syrup, whole grain mustard, finely grated orange zest, kosher salt, and a few grinds of fresh black pepper until smooth.
Now, it’s time to cook the meatballs. Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a high-sided cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium heat until it’s hot. Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook the meatballs for about 4 minutes, or until the bottom side is golden brown. Carefully turn the meatballs over, allowing them to cook on the other side for about 3 minutes more until browned.
After the meatballs are nicely browned, pour the prepared cranberry sauce over them in the skillet. Gently stir the meatballs in the sauce, making sure they are well coated. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the meatballs reads 165 degrees.
Finally, to serve, divide the mashed potatoes among plates and spoon the cranberry-glazed meatballs and sauce over the top for a beautiful and comforting meal.
How to Make Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
To make these meatballs, begin by preparing the mixture detailed earlier. The combination of turkey, herbs, and spices brings depth to the flavor, while the panko adds a pleasing texture.
Ensure the meatballs are well chilled before cooking. This helps them hold their shape and prevents them from breaking apart while cooking.
The cranberry sauce you whip up is essential; it’s sweet, tangy, and enhances the overall taste of the meatballs. It’s an easy way to add a seasonal touch to your meal.
Cook the meatballs in a lightly oiled skillet, making sure each side gets the proper brown color. The key is to keep the heat steady to allow for that perfect crust without burning.
After combining the meatballs with the sauce, let them simmer for a few minutes. This not only heats them through but allows both the meatballs and sauce to meld perfectly for maximum flavor.
How to Serve Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs can be served in several ways. For a traditional touch, serve them over creamy mashed potatoes. The velvety texture of the potatoes pairs wonderfully with the sweet-tart sauce.
You could also serve these meatballs over rice or quinoa for a different texture. Both options soak up the sauce quite nicely, providing a well-rounded meal.
For additional color and crunch, serve a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. This contrasts beautifully with the meatballs and adds a healthy touch.
For a more casual meal, serve the meatballs in a warm sub roll topped with extra sauce and perhaps a sprinkle of cheese. This creates a delicious meatball sub sandwich.
What to Serve with Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
Apart from the creamy mashed potatoes, consider serving several delightful accompaniments. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes can balance the dish with their savory notes.
A side of apple sauce also presents a nice contrast, as its sweetness complements the cranberry glaze beautifully. For a fresh touch, a simple cucumber salad or a classic coleslaw can add a crispy texture.
If you’re leaning towards a festive theme, consider serving a cranberry relish or a wild rice pilaf alongside your meatballs. Both will elevate your meal effortlessly.
If you prefer a heartier meal, a warm, crusty bread could work well. The bread can soak up any remaining sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
How to Store Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
If you have leftovers of Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs, storing them properly will ensure they remain delicious. Allow the meatballs to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container.
Store the meatballs in the refrigerator, where they will last for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This will prevent them from sticking together.
Defrost frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. They can be warmed up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Always ensure that the internal temperature of reheated meatballs reaches 165 degrees for safe consumption.
Tips to Make Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
To enhance the flavor of your meatballs, try mixing in different herbs or spices. A pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add an extra kick.
Ensure your ground turkey is not too lean, as some fat content helps create a juicier meatball. Aim for a blend that’s around 94% lean for optimal flavor.
When forming the meatballs, try to keep them uniform in size. This will ensure even cooking and help each ball cook through properly.
If you find your meatball mixture is too wet, add more panko bread crumbs a tablespoon at a time until the texture holds. Conversely, if it’s too dry, a splash of chicken broth can help reach the correct consistency.
Letting the meatballs chill before cooking is crucial for maintaining their shape. Don’t skip this step, as it also allows the flavors to set in.
Variation
Feel free to customize your meatballs. Instead of ground turkey, you can use ground chicken or even a mixture of different meats for varied flavor.
Switch up the glaze by adding in different fruit preserves or sauces. A tangy apricot jam or a sweet barbecue sauce can further diversify your dish.
For a seasonal twist, you might add chopped dried cranberries or apples into the meatball mixture itself for added texture and flavor.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Best Time to Make Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs are excellent year-round, but they shine during the fall and winter seasons, thanks to their festive elements.
These meatballs are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even potluck parties. Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors make them a holiday favorite.
You can also whip them up for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. They work well for meal prep, allowing you to have ready-made, delicious options at your fingertips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One major mistake to avoid is overmixing the meat mixture. Overworking the meat can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined and then form.
Another common mistake is cooking the meatballs at too high a temperature. High heat may burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Medium heat is ideal to achieve a balanced cook.
Don’t forget to allow the meatballs to chill before cooking. This will help them keep their shape, enhancing the final presentation.
Lastly, when cooking, ensure every meatball is adequately spaced in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning, which affects taste and texture.
Nutritional Notes (Optional)
Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs are a healthy choice compared to traditional meatballs. Ground turkey is lean and rich in protein, making it a smart option.
These meatballs are lower in fat and calories while still offering a rich flavor thanks to the cranberry glaze. They also provide a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.
With fresh herbs included, you get added health benefits like antioxidants, making these meatballs not just tasty, but nutritious as well.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef for turkey. However, ground beef will change the flavor and fat content, so keep that in mind.
Can these meatballs be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and cook them ahead of time, then simply reheat before serving. They also freeze well.
What should I do if my meatballs are falling apart?
If your meatballs crumble, try adding more breadcrumbs to the mixture. Chilling them before cooking can also help maintain their structure.
Conclusion
Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs make a delicious and hearty choice for meals any day of the week. Their blend of flavors and ease of preparation make them superb for both special gatherings and everyday dinners.
With a little preparation and care, you can whip up these delightful meatballs that your family and guests will surely love. So, gather your ingredients, give this recipe a try, and enjoy delightful moments around your table!
