There is something irresistibly heartwarming about the Savory Homemade Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe. It combines the comforting flavors of a classic stuffing with the lean, tender goodness of turkey, creating meatballs that are bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these meatballs hit every note—moist, savory, and downright delicious. Trust me, once you try these meatballs, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Savory Homemade Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe are simple but thoughtfully chosen to build layers of taste and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from moistening the meatballs to adding color and seasoning that ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- 1 pound Ground Turkey: Provides a lean and flavorful base that keeps the meatballs light yet satisfying.
- 1 cup Stuffing Mix: Use a seasoned mix to introduce aromatic herbs and a delightful texture inside the meatballs.
- 1 large Egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold the meat mixture together perfectly.
- 1/2 cup Onion, finely chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the overall flavor.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Contributes robust, savory notes that elevate the dish.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped: Brings freshness and a pop of vibrant green color.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the seasonings.
- 1/4 cup Chicken Broth: Keeps the meatballs juicy and tender throughout cooking.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and browning, adding richness and a golden crust.
How to Make Savory Homemade Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by gathering all your ingredients and setting up your cooking space. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is ready to finish cooking the meatballs after they brown beautifully on the stove.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook them until they become translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This step builds a rich flavor foundation that makes these meatballs truly special.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, sautéed onions and garlic, stuffing mix, egg, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything gently until just combined—the key is to avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Step 4: Shape the Meatballs
Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. This ensures even cooking and a satisfying bite. Place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet ready for the next cooking step.
Step 5: Brown the Meatballs
In your skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs, turning carefully to get a golden crust on all sides—about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This caramelized exterior adds a wonderful texture and flavor depth.
Step 6: Bake to Finish
Transfer the browned meatballs back to the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. This step ensures the turkey is fully cooked through and the stuffing inside is perfectly melded with the meat.
Step 7: Rest and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes. This resting time helps redistribute the juices, making each bite juicy and delicious. Now, you’re ready to savor the fruits of your labor!
How to Serve Savory Homemade Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds an inviting burst of color and a hint of extra flavor. A drizzle of homemade gravy or a tangy cranberry sauce complements these meatballs beautifully, giving them a celebratory touch.
Side Dishes
Pair these meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple roasted vegetable medley for a classic meal. For a lighter option, serve over a crisp green salad or cauliflower rice to keep the dish fresh yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn the meatballs into sliders with soft buns and your favorite condiments. Alternatively, thread them onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for a fantastic appetizer or party platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered well will help maintain their moisture and flavor.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze wonderfully. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 2 months, saving you time on busy days when you want a quick yet delicious meal.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed meatballs gently in a skillet over medium heat or bake them in the oven until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as turkey meatballs can dry out. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating helps keep them moist.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of turkey?
Absolutely! While ground turkey keeps these meatballs lean and light, you can substitute ground chicken or even a mix of pork and beef if you prefer a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is it necessary to brown the meatballs before baking?
Browning the meatballs creates a flavorful crust that adds texture and depth to the dish. It’s a step worth the extra effort, but if you’re short on time, you can bake them directly—just know the end result will be slightly different in texture.
Can I make the stuffing mix from scratch?
Yes! Making your own seasoning blend with bread cubes, herbs, and a few spices can be fantastic. Using a seasoned stuffing mix is just a convenient shortcut that still delivers great flavor.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Simply swap the stuffing mix for a gluten-free alternative or use gluten-free breadcrumbs seasoned to your liking. The rest of the recipe remains the same and equally delicious.
What sauce pairs best with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile; a classic turkey gravy or creamy mushroom sauce is perfect for a comforting meal. For a tangier option, cranberry sauce or a light tomato-based sauce also works beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Savory Homemade Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe enough—it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or preparing for guests, this recipe is bound to impress and satisfy. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Savory Homemade Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These savory homemade turkey and stuffing meatballs combine lean ground turkey with seasoned stuffing mix for a flavorful and moist dish. Sautéed onions and garlic add depth, while fresh parsley brightens the flavor. The meatballs are first browned in olive oil then baked to perfection, making them a delightful and hearty meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Turkey (Provides a lean and flavorful base.)
- 1 cup Stuffing Mix (Use a seasoned mix for added flavor.)
- 1 large Egg (Acts as a binding agent.)
- 1/2 cup Onion, finely chopped (Adds sweetness and depth.)
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced (Contributes robust flavor.)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (Adds freshness and color.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances natural flavors.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Essential seasoning.)
- 1/4 cup Chicken Broth (Keeps meatballs moist.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For cooking the meatballs.)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients and Oven: Gather all ingredients and necessary equipment. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the meatballs later.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and sauté the finely chopped onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aromatic flavors.
- Mix Meatball Components: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, sautéed onions and garlic, stuffing mix, egg, fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. Gently mix until all ingredients are just combined, taking care not to overwork the mixture.
- Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet to prepare for browning and baking.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, to develop a flavorful crust and lock in moisture.
- Bake Meatballs: Transfer the browned meatballs back to the baking sheet and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are completely cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute juices and finish cooking gently. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious savory turkey and stuffing meatballs.
Notes
- Use a lean ground turkey to keep the meatballs moist and healthy.
- The seasoned stuffing mix adds extra flavor, but you can substitute with your favorite homemade stuffing for a personalized taste.
- Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture to avoid dense meatballs.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free stuffing mix.
- Check the internal temperature of meatballs with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness (165°F or 74°C).
- Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
