Thanksgiving turkey meatballs served on a festive table

Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs

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Why Make This Recipe

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. While the centerpiece of many Thanksgiving dinners is a grand turkey, some people want a twist on the traditional dishes. This is where Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs come in. They are simple to make and packed with flavor. These meatballs provide an easy way to enjoy the taste of turkey without the hassle of roasting a whole bird. Plus, they are fun to eat and perfect for gatherings, making them a great option for any Thanksgiving table.

Making Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs means you can enjoy all the classic Thanksgiving flavors in a convenient and easy form. They are tender, juicy, and full of herbs and spices that remind you of a holiday feast. Whether you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner or just want a comforting dish to enjoy at home, these meatballs are a hit with everyone. Between the savory turkey, the richness of the Parmesan, and the fresh taste of parsley, every bite will remind you why we love holiday cooking.

Moreover, these meatballs are versatile. You can serve them as the main dish, add them to a pasta meal, or use them as a tasty appetizer. They also work great on party platters, especially when served with a side of warm gravy. This flexibility makes them a go-to recipe for both special occasions and weekday meals. Plus, if you have leftovers, they store well, making them great for meal prep!

With all that said, let’s dive into how to make these flavorful Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs.

How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs

Making Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. You don’t need to be a master chef to create a dish that tastes amazing. Below are the details on how to prepare this delicious recipe.

Ingredients

To make Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup turkey or chicken gravy
  • Mashed potatoes (for serving)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs:

  1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

  2. Form the Meatballs: Once the mixture is well combined, take a portion of the mixture and form it into a ball about 1 inch in diameter. Repeat this until all the mixture is shaped into meatballs. You can make them slightly larger or smaller as you prefer, but keeping them uniform helps with even cooking.

  3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to the meatballs.

  4. Simmer with Gravy: After browning the meatballs, pour 1 cup of turkey or chicken gravy over them in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the meatballs simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This allows the meatballs to absorb the flavor of the gravy while cooking through.

  5. Serve with Mashed Potatoes: Once cooked, you can serve the meatballs over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Drizzle with additional warm gravy, if desired. Enjoy your deliciously hearty Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs

Serving Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs is easy and can be enjoyed in several ways. Here are some ideas for how to present them:

  1. Classic Style: Serve the meatballs on a plate over a mound of creamy mashed potatoes. Top with gravy and a sprinkle of parsley for added color.

  2. Party Platter: For gatherings, arrange the meatballs on a large serving platter with a small bowl of extra gravy for dipping. This can make a great appetizer option.

  3. With Pasta: If you are looking to add a twist, serve these meatballs over cooked pasta instead of mashed potatoes. A simple marinara or creamy sauce pairs nicely.

  4. On Sandwiches: Another fun way to use these meatballs is to make meatball sandwiches. Place a few meatballs in a soft bun, add some cheese and extra gravy, and you have a warm and comforting sandwich option.

  5. With Vegetables: Serve the meatballs with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad. This adds some freshness to the meal and balances the heartiness of the meatballs.

Regardless of how you choose to serve them, these meatballs promise to satisfy.

How to Store Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs

If you have any Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs leftover, storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. Here are some tips for storage:

  1. Refrigeration: Allow the meatballs to cool completely before putting them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

  2. Freezing: For longer storage, Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in sauce on the stovetop.

  3. Gravy Storage: If you made extra gravy, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer for flexibility.

Properly storing Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs ensures you can enjoy them later without compromising their quality.

Tips to Make Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs

To help you achieve the best results with your Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs, here are some helpful tips:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for the freshest herbs and spices you can find to enhance the taste.

  • Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overworking the meat can lead to dense meatballs.

  • Test for Seasoning: Before cooking the entire batch, you can cook a small patty in the skillet to taste the seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

  • Cook Evenly: Make sure to arrange the meatballs in one layer in the skillet without overcrowding. This helps them brown and cook evenly.

  • Adjust Cooking Time: If you prefer smaller or larger meatballs, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Smaller meatballs will cook faster, while larger ones may need a bit more time.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure your Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs are a hit on your holiday table!

Variation

While the classic recipe provides fantastic flavor, there are several ways to change things up:

  1. Add Cranberries: Incorporate dried cranberries into the meatball mixture for a sweet and tart flavor that aligns closely with Thanksgiving.

  2. Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes to the mixture if you enjoy a bit of heat.

  3. Herb Variations: Instead of parsley, you can use different herbs such as sage or thyme for a different flavor profile.

  4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free while maintaining its deliciousness.

  5. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for added flavor and creaminess.

These variations keep the recipe exciting and allow you to customize it to suit different tastes.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of meat?
    Yes, you can use ground chicken, pork, or beef instead of turkey if you prefer a different flavor profile.

  2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time, either cooking them or shaping them and storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

  3. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
    You can use crushed crackers, oats, or a gluten-free alternative like crushed cornflakes or almond flour.

  4. What’s the best way to reheat the meatballs?
    The best way to reheat them is in a skillet with some gravy over low heat, but you can also microwave them if you’re in a hurry.

  5. Can I freeze the meatballs?
    Yes! You can freeze them raw or cooked. Just ensure they are well sealed in airtight containers to avoid freezer burn.

Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs are an easy and satisfying dish that can bring warmth and comfort to your holiday celebrations. Whether served alone, over mashed potatoes, or as part of a larger feast, they are sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy your cooking and happy Thanksgiving!

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Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs

Delicious turkey meatballs infused with classic Thanksgiving flavors, perfect for gatherings or as a comforting home-cooked meal.

  • Author: hbibamine1980
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing and Simmering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Poultry

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup turkey or chicken gravy
  • Mashed potatoes (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, black pepper, and onion powder until well combined.
  2. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange on a plate.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and add meatballs, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
  4. Pour gravy over meatballs, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Serve meatballs over mashed potatoes, drizzled with additional gravy if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, serve with steamed vegetables or fresh salad. Ensure not to overmix the meat mixture to maintain tenderness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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