Mini Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze Recipe
These Mini Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze offer a deliciously moist and flavorful appetizer or snack perfect for holidays or any gathering. Baked to perfection and coated in a tangy-sweet cranberry and barbecue sauce glaze, they combine savory herbs and tender turkey in bite-sized perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 mini meatballs 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup grated onion
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cranberry Glaze
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated onion, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until just combined to maintain tender meatballs.
- Shape Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch diameter meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle Olive Oil and Bake: Lightly drizzle the meatballs with olive oil to ensure moisture and a slight browning effect. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have a golden exterior.
- Make Cranberry Glaze: While the meatballs bake, combine cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sauce is warmed through, slightly thickened, and glossy, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Glaze and Serve: Once meatballs are done, toss them gently in the warm cranberry glaze to coat evenly. Skewer each meatball with festive picks for easy serving and enjoy warm with extra glaze on the side.
Notes
- Use fresh breadcrumbs or panko for a lighter texture in the meatballs.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste preference.
- For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding extra glaze if needed to keep moist.
Keywords: turkey meatballs, cranberry glaze, holiday appetizer, baked meatballs, mini meatballs, finger food, party snacks
