Go Back
Homemade Cranberry Meatballs (Turkey) recipe photo

Cranberry Meatballs (Turkey)

These Cranberry Meatballs (Turkey) are a perfect blend of savory and sweet! Tender turkey meatballs glazed with a tangy cranberry sauce make for a festive, crowd-pleasing dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet or skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Small Saucepan
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, chopped onion, fresh parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until evenly incorporated.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing them onto a plate or tray.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and cook 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
  4. Whisk together cranberry sauce, honey, and Dijon mustard in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until warmed and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Transfer cooked meatballs to the saucepan with cranberry glaze. Stir gently to coat evenly. Serve immediately over rice, in sliders, or as an appetizer.

Notes

  • To make the meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs.
  • Substitute ground chicken for turkey if preferred or for a different flavor.
  • Prepare meatballs and glaze ahead and refrigerate separately for quick cooking later.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • For a spicy kick, add chili flakes to the meatball mixture or glaze.