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Cranberry Meatballs

holiday appetizers
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Sweet-tart cranberries and savory turkey combine in these juicy, festive meatballs.

Perfect for holiday entertaining or cozy family dinners.

Easy to make ahead and customize for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for baking
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • For optional glaze:
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl combine ground turkey, cranberries, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add optional ingredients if using.
  3. Gently mix until just combined; avoid overmixing for tender meatballs.
  4. With slightly damp hands, shape mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 24-30 total).
  5. Place meatballs on the prepared sheet, leaving space between each, and drizzle with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through to 165°F internally.
  7. Meanwhile, if making the glaze, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey, and balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan.
  8. Simmer glaze over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  9. Serve meatballs warm, either brushed with glaze or with glaze on the side for dipping.

Notes

For best results, don’t overmix the meatball mixture which can make them tough.

These meatballs freeze beautifully for up to 3 months, either cooked or uncooked.

For a gluten-free version, substitute crushed Rice Chex or gluten-free panko for the breadcrumbs.

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry meatballs, cranberry sauce, holiday appetizers, festive snacks, meatball recipe, turkey meatballs

Find it online: https://www.joyliciousrecipes.com/cranberry-meatballs-easy-recipe/