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If you’re searching for a comforting, savory dish that brings together the best of holiday flavors in a fun and approachable way, this Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy, tender meatballs packed with savory stuffing, each bite bursting with a perfect balance of herbs, savory sausage, and hearty turkey. It’s like Thanksgiving magic rolled into little bites of joy, perfect for family dinners or crowd-pleasing appetizers. Once you try this Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe, it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy these classic ingredients year-round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential. Each one brings a distinct flavor, texture, or aroma that makes these meatballs so special—from the hearty ground turkey to the buttery richness in the stuffing mix.
- ½ cup yellow onion (minced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 1 rib celery (very finely diced): Gives a fresh, crisp texture and mild earthy flavor.
- ¾ cup chicken broth: Moistens the stuffing and meatballs, keeping them juicy.
- ¼ cup water: Helps cook the stuffing to the perfect consistency.
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided): Provides richness and enhances the savory base.
- 1 (6 oz.) box turkey Stovetop stuffing: The star ingredient that imparts classic herb-infused flavors.
- 1 lb. ground turkey (85% lean): The lean protein foundation for healthy and tender meatballs.
- Salt/pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
- ½ lb. ground sausage: Adds a juicy, flavorful punch and fat for moisture.
- 1 large egg (whisked): Binds everything together for perfect shape and texture.
How to Make Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Veggies
Begin by preheating your oven to 400° F to get it nice and hot for baking those meatballs to perfection. While the oven warms up, melt half of your butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the minced onions and finely diced celery, stirring regularly as they soften gently over 5 to 6 minutes. This process unlocks sweet aromatics that add incredible depth to your meatballs.
Step 2: Cook the Stuffing Base
Next, add the remaining butter, chicken broth, and water to the pan with your softened veggies. Bring it to a boil, then stir in your turkey stuffing evenly until completely combined. Reduce the heat to low, letting the stuffing absorb the flavorful broth mixture as it cooks and thickens. Once ready, remove from heat and transfer the stuffing mix straight into a large bowl to cool for a couple of minutes—this stop prevents cooking the egg prematurely in later steps.
Step 3: Combine the Meat and Stuffing
Season your ground turkey generously with salt and pepper before adding it to the bowl with the warm stuffing mixture. Follow by mixing in the ground sausage and the whisked egg. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix everything until the ingredients are evenly distributed—this ensures every meatball bursts with balanced flavor and moist texture.
Step 4: Form and Bake the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into neat 1 ¾ inch meatballs — this size is ideal for cooking evenly and delivering the perfect bite. Place each meatball on a lightly greased, light-colored baking sheet. Bake them in your preheated oven for 15 minutes, then switch to broil at 450° F for an additional 2 minutes to get that irresistible golden-brown crust. Watch closely during broiling so they don’t get too dark.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serving
Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Their tender interiors and crispy outsides make them a heavenly treat alone or as part of a larger meal setup. You’ve mastered this Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe—congratulations!
How to Serve Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
For a visually inviting and flavorful finish, sprinkle your meatballs lightly with freshly chopped parsley or thyme. A dollop of cranberry sauce on the side adds a sweet tangy counterpoint that brings the dish full circle with traditional holiday vibes. These simple touches elevate the experience, making every bite even more memorable.
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy, creating a hearty, soul-satisfying meal. Roasted green beans or a fresh garden salad can add crunch and brightness to balance the richness. Feel free to serve alongside buttered dinner rolls or warm cornbread for an extra comforting touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these meatballs as a party appetizer with toothpicks and a drizzle of gravy or cranberry glaze. Or turn them into a cozy meatball sandwich with melty cheese and crisp greens on a soft bun. You can even fold them gently into pasta with a light butter sauce for a delightful twist on classic comfort food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days, making them a great option for next-day meals or quick snacking.
Freezing
If you want to keep these wonderful meatballs longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them into a resealable freezer bag or container and store for up to three months. This way, you’ll always have a tasty, homemade meal ready to go.
Reheating
Reheat your refrigerated or thawed frozen meatballs gently in the oven at 350° F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave covered on medium power in short bursts to retain juiciness without drying out. Make sure they reach a safe internal temperature before serving to keep it safe and tasty.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without sausage?
Absolutely! The sausage adds flavor and fat for moisture, but you can simply increase the turkey or add some olive oil for richness. Just expect a slightly leaner, milder meatball.
What type of turkey is best for these meatballs?
Using 85% lean ground turkey strikes the perfect balance between tenderness and flavor. Leaner turkey may dry out, and fattier blends might make the meatballs greasy.
Can I substitute the boxed stuffing?
While the boxed turkey Stovetop stuffing is convenient and flavorful, you can use homemade stuffing or other flavored mixes. Just be mindful of seasoning adjustments as homemade versions may be less seasoned.
What should I do if my meatballs fall apart?
Make sure the egg is well incorporated as a binder and avoid overmixing the mixture, which can make the meat tough. Also, chilling the mixture briefly before forming meatballs helps them hold shape better.
Are these meatballs good for freezing and reheating?
Yes! These meatballs freeze well and reheat beautifully, making them an excellent option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. Just follow the freezing and reheating tips to maintain texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe is a delightful twist on classic seasonal flavors that you’ll love making again and again. It’s approachable, full of comforting tastes, and perfect whether you’re serving a cozy dinner or entertaining guests. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find yourself adding these meatballs to your regular rotation and surprising everyone with how effortlessly delicious they are!
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Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: 35 meatballs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs combine lean ground turkey, flavorful sausage, and classic stovetop stuffing for a comforting, holiday-inspired dish that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Liquids
- ½ cup yellow onion, minced
- 1 rib celery, very finely diced
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup water
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
Meat and Other Ingredients
- 1 (6 oz.) box turkey Stovetop stuffing
- 1 lb. ground turkey (85% lean)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ lb. ground sausage (pork or your preferred variety)
- 1 large egg, whisked
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s ready for baking the meatballs.
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt half of the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced onions and finely diced celery. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
- Prepare Stuffing Mixture: Add the remaining butter, chicken broth, and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil and stir in the stuffing mix. Reduce heat to low and stir until well combined. Remove from heat, transfer to a large bowl, and let cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Meats and Egg: Season the ground turkey with salt and pepper and add it to the bowl with the stuffing mixture. Add the ground sausage and whisked egg. Stir gently but thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1 ¾ inch meatballs and place them on a lightly greased, light-colored baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake and Broil: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, broil them at 450°F for 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent excessive browning.
- Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and serve warm with mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, and cranberry sauce for a complete meal.
Notes
- For best flavor, use a mild or sweet ground sausage; however, spicy sausage can add a nice kick.
- Ensure meatballs are rolled to uniform size for even cooking.
- Watching the broil step is important to avoid burning; it’s a quick process.
- These meatballs reheat well and can be frozen for meal prep.
