Name: Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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, to taste; 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil; Mashed potatoes, for serving

Print Recipe· 3.8 from 8 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that brings together the cozy warmth of holiday flavors with the comfort of a meatball, you have to try this Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs Recipe. Juicy turkey meatballs get a bright, tangy cranberry glaze that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes, making every bite a delightful experience. This recipe is not only bursting with flavor but also surprisingly simple to prepare, showcasing how humble ingredients come together in a way that feels both festive and homey.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a metal baking tray filled with evenly spaced, small round raw meatballs. Each meatball has a grainy texture with visible bits of herbs and spices mixed in, giving a slightly rough surface. The meatballs are pinkish-red with pale flecks throughout. The tray sits on a blue and white cloth, all set on a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs Recipe is straightforward, and each item plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From fresh herbs that add an aromatic lift to pantry staples that bind and enrich the meatballs, everything works in harmony to deliver a show-stopping dish.

1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder, keeping the meatballs tender and together.
3 tbsp. finely chopped yellow onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 tbsp. whole-fat Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess for extra juiciness.
1 tbsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves: Offers earthy, floral notes that enhance the turkey’s flavor.
2 tsp. chopped fresh sage leaves: Brings a classic herbaceous warmth synonymous with turkey dishes.
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce: Delivers umami richness and savory complexity.
1 tsp. kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper: Adds just a touch of gentle heat and spice.
1 lb. (94% lean) ground turkey: The lean protein base that keeps the meatballs light but satisfying.
1/2 c. panko bread crumbs: Ensures a tender yet slightly chewy texture without heaviness.
1 c. canned or homemade cranberry sauce: The star ingredient of the glaze; it brings sweetness, tartness, and that festive vibe.
1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar: Brightens the glaze with a gentle tang.
1 tbsp. pure maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely depth to the cranberry sauce.
1 tbsp. whole grain mustard: Introduces a mild kick and texture that wakes up the glaze.
1 tsp. finely grated orange zest: Lifts the glaze with its fresh citrus aroma.
1/4 tsp. kosher salt: To balance and season the glaze perfectly.
Freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning to taste in the glaze.
2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil: Perfect for browning the meatballs and creating a golden crust.
Mashed potatoes, for serving: The ideal creamy canvas to serve these flavorful meatballs on.

How to Make Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Start by cracking the egg into a large bowl and beating it until smooth. Then add the finely chopped onion, creamy Greek yogurt, fresh thyme, sage, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper—giving everything a good mix with a fork. Now add the ground turkey and panko bread crumbs, and use your clean hands to gently combine everything until it holds together without being overworked. This step sets the foundation for tender, flavorful meatballs bursting with herbaceous goodness.

Step 2: Shape and Chill

Once your mixture is just right, roll it into tablespoon-sized meatballs and place them on a plate or tray. Cover them and pop into the fridge for about 15 minutes. This chilling step firms up the meatballs and makes them easier to sear, creating that irresistible crust you’ll love.

Step 3: Prepare the Cranberry Glaze

While the meatballs chill, whisk together the cranberry sauce, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, whole grain mustard, orange zest, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. This glaze is magic in a bowl, combining sweet, tangy, and fragrant notes that elevate the dish with every spoonful.

Step 4: Brown the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in a deep-sided 12-inch skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot but not smoking, add your chilled meatballs in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes until the bottoms develop a glorious golden crust, then carefully turn and brown the other side for 3 more minutes. This step adds texture and a beautiful color contrast to the tender meat inside.

Step 5: Simmer in the Glaze

Pour the cranberry glaze over the browned meatballs and gently stir to coat each one. Let the sauce bubble and thicken for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, turning your kitchen into a cozy, mouthwatering haven.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Spoon creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate and nestle the glossy cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs on top, generously dousing them with the luscious sauce. Every bite offers a perfect bite of tender turkey, zesty cranberry, and comforting sides—a combination bound to become a new favorite.

How to Serve Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs Recipe

The image shows a white plate filled with a creamy, light yellow layer of mashed potatoes spread unevenly across the bottom. On top, there is a group of round, golden-brown meatballs scattered mainly on the top left side of the mashed potatoes, with a shiny, thick reddish-brown sauce drizzled over them and slightly spilling onto the mashed potatoes. A silver fork is placed on the right edge of the plate, partially resting on the mashed potatoes. The background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped thyme or sage sprinkled on top add a lovely pop of green and an extra herbaceous punch. A light dusting of finely grated orange zest can also brighten the presentation, enhancing the citrus notes in the glaze. Don’t shy away from a little cracked black pepper finish to add dimension.

Side Dishes

Mashed potatoes are a classic partner for this recipe because they soak up the cranberry glaze perfectly. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with balsamic glaze. These sides provide balance to the dish’s richness and keep the meal fresh and exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these meatballs as skewers for an elegant appetizer or party snack. Another fun idea is to build mini meatball sliders using soft dinner rolls and a dollop of extra cranberry sauce. This Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs Recipe is versatile enough to suit casual dinners or festive gatherings alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the meatballs and glaze to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days and enjoy the delicious flavors without any compromise on texture or moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze fully cooked meatballs with glaze for up to 2 months. For best results, place the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps preserve their shape and flavor for a quick meal anytime.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave covered, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the meatballs moist. Warm them until heated through to ensure that cranberry glaze is luscious and the turkey is perfectly tender once again.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken can be a great alternative and will work well with the herbs and glaze, though turkey has a slightly richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberry.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the panko bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers without altering the taste or texture much.

Can I prepare the meatballs and glaze ahead of time?

Definitely. You can mix and form the meatballs and even make the glaze a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge and cook fresh when ready to serve for optimal texture.

Do I need fresh herbs, or can I use dried?

Fresh herbs really shine in this recipe, offering the best flavor. If you only have dried, reduce the amount to about one-third for thyme and sage since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What if I don’t have cranberry sauce on hand?

You can substitute with fresh cranberries cooked down with a bit of sugar, or even use lingonberry jam for a similar tart and sweet glaze. Adjust the sweetness and acidity to taste.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs Recipe is one of those joyful dishes that feels like a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a standout dish for a special occasion, these meatballs will bring smiles all around. Give this recipe a try—you might just find a new go-to that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious.