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.

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

Description

Juicy, festive, and flavorful, these Turkey Cranberry Meatballs with Sage are the perfect appetizer for your holiday spread.

Ingredients

Scale

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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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 390°F (200°C) or prepare a frying pan over medium heat.

2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients gently—don’t overmix.

3. Use a measuring tablespoon to scoop even portions.

4. Roll into balls with damp hands.

5. Place meatballs on oiled tray (for baking) or in a preheated pan.

6. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once halfway.

7. Or fry for 12–15 minutes, turning regularly until golden.

8. Serve with cranberry sauce.

Notes

For moist meatballs, avoid overmixing and use thigh meat.

Can be made ahead and frozen for later.

Pairs well with cranberry dipping sauce or mustard-based dips.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking or Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 meatball
Calories: 66
Sugar: 1.34g
Sodium: 177mg
Fat: 3.41g
Saturated Fat: 0.813g
Unsaturated Fat: 2.297g
Trans Fat: 0.031g
Carbohydrates: 2.86g
Fiber: 0.4g
Protein: 6.23g
Cholesterol: 30mg