Turkey Cranberry Meatballs with Sage – Juicy, Festive, and Full of Flavor

Name: Turkey Cranberry Meatballs with Sage – Juicy, Festive, and Full of Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb / 500g ground turkey (preferably thigh); 2 tbsp dried cranberries, finely diced; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped; 1 tbsp fresh parsley; 1 medium spring onion, finely diced; 1 egg; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for baking or frying); 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt; Zest of 1/2 clementine or orange

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Deliciously golden on the outside and juicy on the inside, these Turkey Cranberry Meatballs with Sage are a festive favorite. Each bite brings together tender turkey, fragrant sage, and sweet pops of cranberry — making them the perfect holiday appetizer or party snack.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 15 min
Total Time: 25 min

Ingredients

1 lb (500g) ground turkey (thigh preferred for flavor and moisture)
2 tbsp dried cranberries, finely diced
½ cup (35g) dried breadcrumbs
1 tbsp fresh sage, finely diced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely diced
1 medium spring onion, finely diced
1 egg
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp nutmeg
Zest of ½ small clementine (or orange)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Meatball Filling

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, diced cranberries, breadcrumbs, sage, parsley, spring onion, egg, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and clementine zest. Gently mix with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

2. Form the Meatballs

Using a measuring tablespoon, scoop even portions of the mixture and roll gently into small, bite-sized meatballs. Even sizing ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy throughout.

3. Choose Your Cooking Method

To Bake:
Place the meatballs on a lightly oiled baking tray. Bake at 200°C / 390°F for 15–20 minutes, shaking the tray halfway through. They should be golden brown and cooked through.

To Fry:
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking occasionally for even browning. Cook until golden and fully done inside.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cooked meatballs to a serving plate. Serve hot or cold with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping. Perfect for festive gatherings or as a holiday appetizer.

Pro Tips for Perfect Turkey Meatballs

Use breadcrumbs to lock in moisture: They act like a sponge, keeping the meatballs juicy.
Avoid overworking the meat: Gentle mixing keeps the texture soft and tender.
Add olive oil for richness: Turkey is lean, so a touch of oil adds flavor and prevents dryness.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 meatball	66 kcal	6.2g	2.9g	3.4g	0.4g	1.3g

Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Classic Cranberry Dip: Pair these meatballs with homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for a tangy contrast.
Appetizer Platter: Serve alongside cheese cubes, roasted nuts, and fresh herbs for a colorful party tray.
Holiday Dinner Upgrade: Add them to your festive spread beside mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or stuffing.
Light Lunch: Serve over a bed of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing midday meal.

Tips for Storing and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Arrange cooked meatballs on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or microwave gently until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey breast instead of thigh?

Yes, but turkey breast is leaner and can dry out faster. Add a bit more olive oil or an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs for moisture.

Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can roll the meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate them covered until ready to bake or fry.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the same texture.

What can I use instead of cranberries?

Dried cherries or finely chopped dried apricots make delicious alternatives if you want to mix up the flavor profile.

How can I make them extra flavorful?

A dash of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of parmesan in the mixture adds extra depth and savory balance to the sweet cranberry notes.

Why You’ll Love These Turkey Cranberry Meatballs

These Turkey Cranberry Meatballs with Sage are simple yet bursting with holiday flavor. They’re golden, moist, and packed with festive ingredients that bring warmth to every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a cozy weeknight meal idea, these meatballs fit right in.

Make them once, and they’ll quickly become your go-to holiday appetizer.

Ingredients