Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These Cranberry Turkey Meatballs are the perfect answer. Imagine juicy, flavorful meatballs bursting with the tart sweetness of cranberries, all nestled in a vibrant sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a festive holiday gathering, or even a fun weekend lunch. It's a delicious and healthy meal the whole family will adore, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce (whole berry recommended)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Making the Meatballs:
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In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, cranberries, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
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Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
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Place the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet.
Baking and Simmering:
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned.
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While the meatballs bake, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the chicken broth, cranberry sauce, and balsamic vinegar (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
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Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the simmering sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the delicious flavors.
Serving:
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. These cranberry turkey meatballs are fantastic on their own, served over pasta, quinoa, or mashed sweet potatoes. They also make a great addition to salads or grain bowls.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a touch of heat.
- Add some cheese: Incorporate 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese into the meatball mixture for extra flavor and richness.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground turkey with a vegetarian ground meat alternative.
- Slow Cooker Option: Brown the meatballs in a skillet before transferring them to a slow cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until cooked through.
- Frozen Cranberries: If using frozen cranberries, there's no need to thaw them before adding them to the meatball mixture.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 3-5g
This Cranberry Turkey Meatball recipe is a testament to the deliciousness of simple, healthy food. It’s a quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!