Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly combines the comforting flavors of a holiday feast all year round, let me introduce you to these incredible Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs. This recipe is a delightful marriage of tender ground turkey, savory veggies, and a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries, all brought together with classic stuffing seasonings. Each bite bursts with warmth and a cozy, homey feel, making these meatballs a standout for weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or even a special brunch treat. Trust me, once you try Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs, they will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor, texture, and balance—no complicated elements or hard-to-find spices here. From the earthy mushrooms to the pop of tangy cranberries, every single ingredient adds something special that makes these Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs truly unforgettable.

• ½ lb. mushrooms, finely chopped: Adds moisture and umami depth that keeps the meatballs juicy and flavorful.
• 1 cup onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and aromatic sharpness, the classic base for great stuffing flavors.
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped: Adds subtle crunch and a fresh contrast to the rich turkey.
• 1 lb. ground turkey breast: The lean, tender protein that forms the hearty base of these meatballs.
• ½ cup coarsely ground cornmeal or dry cornbread stuffing: Acts as the binder while contributing a mild, savory corn flavor.
• ½ cup dried cranberries: Offers a splash of tart sweetness that makes every bite pop.
• 1 egg, lightly beaten: Helps to hold the mixture together without weighing it down.
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: Infuses those classic herbal notes that take the meatballs to holiday-level deliciousness.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle punch of garlic that deepens the savory profile.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Seasoning essential for bringing all the flavors into harmony.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.

How to Make Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or give it a good brush or spray with oil to prevent sticking. This keeps cleanup simple and ensures the meatballs cook evenly without any sticking mishaps.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Combine all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl. You’ll notice the mixture feels moist, thanks to the mushrooms and turkey, but it should hold together well. This step is where all the flavors start mingling to create that perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Step 3: Shape Your Meatballs

Using a meatball scoop or melon baller, portion out the mixture into 24 meatballs, roughly 1½ inches each. Keeping them uniform in size helps them cook evenly, and the modest size makes them easy to enjoy as a snack or part of a main course. Arrange them about an inch apart on the baking sheet, giving them room to brown and crisp up just a tad.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfect

Bake the meatballs uncovered in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes. You’ll want to check their internal temperature—when it hits 165ºF, they’re ready. This ensures the turkey is fully cooked but still juicy. The aroma wafting from your oven at this stage will probably have everyone gathering around!

How to Serve Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs

Garnishes

A quick sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a bright herbal note that enhances these meatballs beautifully. You can also serve them with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping, bringing out that lovely tart contrast against the savory meatballs. Mini skewers make them perfect finger food for any casual get-together or family meal.

Side Dishes

These Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing. Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes make classic, comforting companions. For a lighter option, try a crisp green salad or steamed green beans tossed with lemon and garlic. The meatballs’ hearty texture pairs well with both rich and fresh sides.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve these meatballs atop a bed of buttery polenta for an elegant twist. Or create a fun slider by sandwiching a couple of meatballs inside soft dinner rolls with a spread of cranberry mayo. You can also turn them into a festive appetizer by skewering with chunks of cheese and apple slices for a surprising flavor combo.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Reheat gently to keep their moist texture intact.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or make a larger batch, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until firm before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months, ready for a convenient meal whenever you crave that comforting flavor.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the meatballs in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them covered to retain moisture, but the oven helps keep their lovely baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute and will offer a similarly light and tender texture, though the flavor might be slightly milder. Adjust seasoning if needed to keep that delicious stuffing spice balance.

What can I use instead of dried cranberries?

If you’re not a fan of cranberries, chopped dried apricots or raisins make great alternatives. They provide sweetness and chewy texture that complements the meatballs just as nicely.

Is it possible to bake these meatballs without cornmeal or stuffing?

You can omit the cornmeal or stuffing if needed, but keep in mind that it helps bind the mixture and contributes to the flavor profile. You might want to add breadcrumbs as a substitute to achieve a similar texture.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The safest and most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer; the USDA recommends that ground turkey be cooked to an internal temperature of 165ºF. When the thermometer reads this temp, you can be confident they’re done and safe to eat.

Can I prepare the mixture in advance and bake later?

Yes! You can mix everything up to 24 hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just shape the meatballs and bake as directed for fresh, flavorful results.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs that brings comfort food vibes and bright holiday flavor to any meal. They’re easy to make, packed with delicious ingredients, and sure to wow your family or guests. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy turkey that feels cozy and exciting all at once!

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