Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze brings a delightful twist to your dinner table. This dish balances the savory goodness of turkey meatballs with a tangy-sweet cranberry glaze, making it perfect for family meals or festive gatherings. Not only are they delicious, but they are also easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
Why Make This Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze
Making Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. Ground turkey is leaner than traditional beef, providing a nutritious source of protein. The cranberry glaze offers a unique flavor combination, perfect for complementing the moist and tender meatballs. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that works well as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a holiday feast.
How to Make Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatballs will bake evenly and become golden brown.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined. The cohesion of these ingredients will shape the perfect meatballs.
Step 3: Cooking
Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. The lovely aroma of turkey and herbs will fill your kitchen!
Step 4: Finishing
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Heat over medium heat until everything is warmed through and well blended. This glaze will bring a delightful sweet and savory element to your meatballs.
Serve the meatballs drizzled with the cranberry glaze for an elegant presentation.
How to Serve Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze
Turkey meatballs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve them over a bed of rice, with mashed potatoes, or alongside a fresh green salad. These meatballs also make a great appetizer; simply serve them with toothpicks and a side of extra cranberry glaze for dipping.
How to Store Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze
If you have leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe container and they will keep for up to 3 months. Ensure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze
- For added moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of olive oil to the meatball mixture.
- If breadcrumbs are unavailable, crushed crackers or oats can be a great substitute.
- Don’t skip the chilling process; letting your meatballs rest in the fridge before baking can help them hold their shape better.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for a unique flavor twist.
Delicious Variations
Feel free to customize your meatballs! You can experiment by adding chopped bell peppers or onions for more texture. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. To make them gluten-free, swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef, but the nutritional profile will change as beef is higher in fat. - Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?
While Parmesan adds flavor, you can omit it or substitute with another cheese if desired. - Can I bake these meatballs in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook them at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness. - How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when cooked through. - What can I do with leftover cranberry glaze?
Use it as a spread on sandwiches, mix it into salad dressings, or drizzle over cream cheese for an easy appetizer.
Conclusion
Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze are a delightful dish that combines healthiness with great taste. Their juicy texture and the sweet and tangy glaze make them a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, and give this recipe a try—you’ll be glad you did! Enjoy every bite!
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Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: N/A
Description
A delicious twist on classic meatballs, featuring savory turkey and a tangy-sweet cranberry glaze, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
- Serve the meatballs drizzled with the cranberry glaze.
Notes
For added moisture, mix in a tablespoon of olive oil. Chilling meatballs before baking helps them hold their shape better.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
