Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce – A Sweet & Savory Delight

Craving a sweet and savory dish? These Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make—perfect for any occasion!

I love how the lean turkey and tangy cranberry glaze create a delicious balance. Baked, not fried, they’re a lighter yet satisfying option for dinner or appetizers.

Want a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and elegant? These turkey meatballs are your answer. Let’s get cooking!

A plate of turkey meatballs glazed with a rich, glossy cranberry sauce, garnished with fresh parsley. The meatballs are arranged on a rustic serving platter with extra cranberry sauce drizzled over them. A small bowl of cranberry sauce sits beside the plate, adding to the warm and festive presentation.

Preparation Time, Serving & Yield

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serving: 4 people
Yield: 16 meatballs

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

1 lb ground turkey
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the cranberry sauce:

1 cup cranberry sauce
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp soy sauce
½ tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp apple cider vinegar
¼ tsp cinnamon

How to Make Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Combine until just mixed—don’t overwork the meat!

A large mixing bowl filled with ground turkey, breadcrumbs, a cracked egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. A wooden spoon gently stirs the ingredients, ensuring they are just combined without overworking the meat. The bowl sits on a rustic wooden surface, surrounded by small dishes of the remaining ingredients, with soft natural lighting enhancing the fresh, homemade feel.

Step 2: Shape and Cook the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch each). Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Sauce

In a saucepan, whisk together cranberry sauce, honey, soy sauce, mustard, vinegar, and cinnamon. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Coat the Meatballs

Add the cooked meatballs to the cranberry sauce and gently toss to coat. Let them simmer for 5 more minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions. They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or as an appetizer with toothpicks!

Turkey meatballs served as an appetizer with toothpicks, glazed with cranberry sauce and garnished with green onions. Arranged on a wooden platter with a cozy, inviting presentation.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 220
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g

Different Versions to Try

Want to customize your meatballs? Here are a few variations:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Cheesy Twist: Mix in grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Herb Infusion: Use fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour.

Why You Must Try This Recipe

These turkey meatballs are a game-changer! They’re juicy, flavorful, and healthier than traditional beef meatballs. Plus, the cranberry sauce adds a unique, tangy-sweet twist that makes them perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or appetizers.

Craving a rustic, flaky dessert? Try this easy Plum Galette Recipe, bursting with juicy plum flavors and a golden, buttery crust!

Conclusion

With a perfect balance of savory and sweet, these Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce are an easy, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether for a festive gathering or a simple dinner, they deliver on taste and simplicity. Try them today and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and delicious!