Easy Cranberry Turkey Meatballs For Holiday Appetizers

Crisp, savory, and bursting with flavor, these cranberry turkey meatballs are a delightful dance between comfort food and festive flair. The juicy meatballs, seasoned with classic herbs and spices, provide a satisfyingly savory base, while the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce elevates the dish to holiday perfection. The sauce, made with a blend of cranberry sauce, chicken broth, and a touch of Dijon mustard, balances the richness of the turkey, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s sure to impress.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. It transforms readily available ingredients into an appetizer that feels both elegant and approachable. These cranberry turkey meatballs are the perfect addition to any holiday gathering, offering a delightful bite that is both familiar and exciting.

Why you’ll love this Festive Cranberry Turkey Meatballs

• Ready in just 40 minutes, making them a stress-free appetizer for any occasion.
• The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce perfectly complements the savory turkey meatballs.
• A unique and flavorful twist on classic meatballs, perfect for the holidays.
• These festive cranberry turkey meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer or a main course.
• The recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.
• Made with simple ingredients, this recipe is both budget-friendly and delicious.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (14 ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Cranberry turkey meatballs makes every moment feel velvety. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also substitute the ketchup with tomato paste for a richer flavor.

How to make Festive Cranberry Turkey Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. This will take about 8-10 minutes.

Chef’s Tip: Browning the meatballs adds depth of flavor and helps them hold their shape during simmering.

Step 4: Make the Cranberry Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, chicken broth, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.

Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce

Pour the cranberry sauce mixture over the meatballs in the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture – gently combine the ingredients to avoid tough meatballs.
• Browning the meatballs before simmering adds a rich, savory flavor.
• Simmer the meatballs on low heat to prevent the cranberry sauce from burning.
• Adjust the sweetness of the cranberry sauce by adding a touch of maple syrup or honey, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

These cranberry turkey meatballs are delicious served as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking. They also pair well with creamy mashed potatoes or crisp-tender green beans for a complete meal. Consider serving them over rice or quinoa for a hearty and satisfying dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cranberry turkey meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, or microwave until heated through. You can also reheat them in a slow cooker on low setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked cranberry turkey meatballs. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of jellied cranberry sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. You’ll need about 12 ounces of fresh cranberries. Cook them down with 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water until they burst and thicken before adding the other sauce ingredients.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! The meatballs can be made ahead of time and reheated just before serving. This makes them a perfect appetizer for parties and gatherings. Assemble the meatballs according to the recipe instructions and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

The perfect blend of sweet and savory, these cranberry turkey meatballs are destined to be a holiday favorite. Their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor make them a winning choice for any gathering. The combination of juicy meatballs and tangy cranberry sauce creates an irresistible appetizer that is sure to impress. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out these festive cranberry feta pinwheels for another delicious holiday appetizer! What are you waiting for? Give these incredible festive cranberry turkey meatballs a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!