Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Healthy Fact of the Day

These turkey meatballs offer a healthier alternative to traditional beef versions. Turkey is lean protein, lower in saturated fat while still providing essential nutrients like B vitamins and zinc. The cranberry sauce contains antioxidants and vitamin C. To make them even healthier, use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber, or substitute with rolled oats. Consider baking on a rack to allow fat to drip away. The fresh herbs provide additional antioxidants and flavor without extra calories. While the glaze contains sugar from cranberries and honey, it's more nutritious than many commercial glazes. For an even lighter version, try using sugar-free cranberry sauce or reducing the honey content.

Ingredients

 

For the meatballs:

  • 2 lbs ground turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

 

For the glaze:

  • 1 (14 oz) can whole cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk.

  3. Let sit for 5 minutes.

  4. Add ground turkey, egg, parsley, garlic, onion, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.

  5. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix).

  6. Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on prepared baking sheet.

  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

  8. Meanwhile, combine all glaze ingredients in a saucepan.

  9. Simmer glaze over medium heat until slightly thickened.

  10. Transfer cooked meatballs to a large bowl.

  11. Pour warm glaze over meatballs and gently toss to coat.

  12. Arrange on serving platter and garnish with rosemary.

  13. Serve hot, with extra glaze on the side.

Pop one of these Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs into your mouth and savor the perfect balance of savory and sweet! The juicy turkey meatballs, seasoned with herbs and bathed in tangy-sweet cranberry glaze, deliver all the flavors of the holiday season in one perfect bite. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these meatballs promise to disappear faster than snow in sunshine. So roll up your sleeves, season that turkey, and get ready to create the appetizer that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Recent Recipes

Costco Recalls Bakery Madeleines at 11 Locations

  • April 9, 2026
  • 4 min read

Amaretto Island Punch

  • April 9, 2026
  • 11 min read

Why Restaurant Fish Is So Much Better

  • April 9, 2026
  • 6 min read

Mediterranean Baked Fish

  • April 9, 2026
  • 9 min read

Hidden Valley Ranch Just Dropped Three New

  • April 8, 2026
  • 4 min read

Pork Roast with a Tangy Hoisin Glaze

  • April 8, 2026
  • 12 min read

The Secret to Restaurant-Quality Soup Is What

  • April 8, 2026
  • 6 min read

Cowboy Stir Fry

  • April 8, 2026
  • 9 min read

Dairy Queen Is Turning Your Childhood Cereal

  • April 7, 2026
  • 3 min read

Shredded Chicken Tacos with Avocado Sour Cream

  • April 7, 2026
  • 9 min read

Tip of the Day

“Always let your meat rest before slicing.”

Whether you're roasting a chicken, grilling steak, or baking pork tenderloin, letting cooked meat rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute evenly. This simple step keeps your meat juicy and tender, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist. Bonus: It gives you a moment to plate your sides or garnish for a perfect presentation!

Our Latest Recipes

Blog
Daily Disher

Costco Recalls Bakery Madeleines at 11 Locations After Packaging Mix-Up Conceals Tree Nut Allergen

For anyone managing a tree nut allergy, this recall is a reminder of how important it is to inspect bakery packaging carefully — even from trusted retailers. When buying bakery items, especially from bulk or warehouse stores where products are pre-packaged in-house, always open the container and visually inspect the contents before serving, particularly to children or guests with known allergies. If anything looks unexpected, don’t assume it’s safe — return it and ask.

Read More »
Beverages
Amelia Grace

Amaretto Island Punch

Orange juice is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune health and skin vitality — so you’re basically boosting your wellness while you sip!

Read More »
Blog
Daily Disher

Why Restaurant Fish Is So Much Better Than What You Make at Home

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are among the richest dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and are linked to improved cognitive function. Eating fatty fish twice a week is one of the most consistently recommended dietary habits across major nutritional guidelines.

Read More »

Get your daily dose of delicious!

Skip to content