The lean goodness of ground turkey with the sweetness of grated apples and the tartness of cranberries. Update since 10/21/2023.

Cranberry Apple Turkey Meatballs offer a delightful combination of flavors, uniting the lean goodness of ground turkey with the sweetness of grated apples and the tartness of finely chopped cranberries. Each bite is a blend of savory and sweet, heightened by the aromatic essence of sage. Baked to golden perfection, these meatballs boast a tender interior and a caramelized exterior. The luscious glaze marries the zing of cranberry with the richness of maple syrup and soy sauce. Versatile and satisfying, these meatballs promise a delightful culinary journey, whether served as appetizers or the centerpiece of a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 an onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grated apple (use a tart variety)
• 1/4 cup craisins (unsweetened dried cranberries), chopped if desired
• 2 cups spinach, finely chopped
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh or dried sage
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Glaze (optional)

• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, spinach, chopped onion, grated apple, cranberries, egg, sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape Meatballs:
   • Shape the mixture into 12 meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a muffin tin.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
5. Prepare the Glaze (optional):
   • While the meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), and soy sauce. Heat over medium heat, stirring until well combined and heated through.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
   • Once the meatballs are done, brush them generously with the cranberry glaze.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the cranberry apple turkey meatballs plain, glazed or with glaze on the side for dipping.

These turkey meatballs are a perfect blend of lean protein, sweet apples, and tart cranberries. They make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or even a main course when paired with rice or quinoa. Enjoy the burst of flavors in each bite!

Note: Ground chicken can be substituted for ground turkey.

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