thanksgiving meatballs crockpot: 7 comforting bites to savor

June 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Thanksgiving is truly one of my favorite times of the year! It’s all about family, laughter, and of course, delicious food. I love gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, and indulging in festive flavors. That’s where my *thanksgiving meatballs crockpot* come into play! They’re the perfect addition to any Thanksgiving spread. With juicy turkey meatballs drenched in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, they’re not just tasty; they’re also super easy to prepare! Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic while you focus on other dishes or enjoy some quality time with your guests. Trust me, these meatballs will have everyone asking for seconds, and you’ll love how little effort it takes to impress your crowd. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients List

1 pound ground turkey, finely ground
1/2 cup breadcrumbs, plain
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, packed
1/4 cup chopped parsley, fresh for best flavor
1 egg, large and slightly beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder, for that delicious aroma
1 teaspoon onion powder, adds depth to the flavor
1/2 teaspoon salt, to enhance all the tastes
1/2 teaspoon pepper, freshly ground if you can
2 cups cranberry sauce, store-bought or homemade for extra love

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Meatballs in the Crockpot

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. It’s important to mix this well so that all those flavors meld together beautifully. I usually use my hands—trust me, it’s the best way to ensure everything’s mixed evenly!
Once you’ve got a lovely, well-blended mixture, it’s time to form your meatballs. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter; this size cooks perfectly in the crockpot. Just roll them between your palms and place them on a clean plate. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; they’ll taste great no matter what!
Now, let’s get your crockpot ready! Place all those meatballs right into the crockpot. You can fit them snugly together, but don’t overcrowd; they need a little space to breathe and soak up that delicious sauce!
Pour the cranberry sauce over the meatballs. This is where the magic happens! Make sure they’re all nicely coated, so every bite is bursting with flavor.
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The low setting is my favorite because it allows the flavors to deepen, but either way works great!
When it’s time to serve, just scoop those meatballs out with a slotted spoon and drizzle some of that luscious sauce over the top. Enjoy the compliments—you’ve earned them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super simple preparation—just mix, roll, and let the crockpot do the work!
Amazingly flavorful with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce that complements the turkey perfectly.
Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any festive occasion—everyone will rave about them!
Easy to scale up for larger crowds without any extra hassle.
Healthy and gluten-free, making them a guilt-free indulgence during the holiday season.
They make for a delightful appetizer or a hearty main dish—flexible enough for any table setting!
Leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day—hello, turkey meatball sandwiches!

Tips for Success

To ensure your *thanksgiving meatballs crockpot* turn out perfectly, here are some of my top tips that I’ve picked up over the years:

Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor to the meatballs, so don’t skimp on this ingredient! Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh ones really elevate the dish.
Quality meat matters: Opt for good-quality ground turkey for the best taste. If you can, look for all-natural or organic options—they make a world of difference!
Adjust cooking time: Every crockpot is a bit different, so keep an eye on your meatballs, especially if it’s your first time using a new model. If you notice they’re cooking faster, lower the cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Don’t overcrowd: While you might be tempted to fit as many meatballs as possible into the crockpot, giving them space will help them cook evenly and absorb more sauce flavor.
Check for doneness: Make sure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. A quick meat thermometer can help with this!
Add more sauce: If you’re a fan of saucy meatballs, feel free to add more cranberry sauce or even a splash of chicken broth for extra moisture during cooking.
Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix in other spices or ingredients that you love like a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick or some chopped onions for extra depth.

Following these tips will help you create the most delicious and satisfying meatballs that everyone will be raving about! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

While I strive to provide accurate nutritional information for my *thanksgiving meatballs crockpot*, please keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. Factors like the exact amount of cranberry sauce, the type of ground turkey, and even the cooking method can influence the final nutritional content. So, if you’re keeping a close eye on your dietary needs, I recommend calculating the nutrition based on your own ingredient choices. Enjoy cooking and savoring these delightful meatballs with joy and balance!

FAQ Section

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! While I love the lightness of ground turkey in these *thanksgiving meatballs crockpot*, you can definitely swap in ground beef if that’s your preference. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit richer.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?
You’ll want to check the internal temperature of your meatballs. They should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat. Using a meat thermometer is a quick and easy way to ensure they’re cooked perfectly!

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before cooking. Just pop them in the crockpot when you’re ready to enjoy, and let the slow cooker do its magic!

What can I serve with these meatballs?
These *thanksgiving meatballs crockpot* pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh salad. They also make a fantastic appetizer when served with toothpicks and extra cranberry sauce on the side!

Can I freeze the meatballs after cooking?
Definitely! If you have leftovers (lucky you!), just let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving my *thanksgiving meatballs crockpot*, the options are endless! These little gems are so versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and accompaniments to make your Thanksgiving feast truly memorable. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes! They’re perfect for soaking up that luscious cranberry sauce and balancing out the flavors.
Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf makes an excellent base for the meatballs. You can even add some herbs or nuts for extra texture and flavor!
Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the rich meatballs. It’s a great way to lighten up the meal!
Roasted Vegetables: Think colorful roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness complements the cranberry sauce beautifully.
Stuffing: If you’re feeling festive, serve the meatballs alongside your favorite stuffing. The savory flavors work harmoniously together, making it feel like a complete Thanksgiving dinner.
Bread Rolls: Soft, warm bread rolls are perfect for mopping up any extra cranberry sauce. Everyone will appreciate having something to soak up all that deliciousness!
Cheese Platter: For an appetizer spread, consider a cheese platter with assorted cheeses, crackers, and fruit. It adds variety and makes for a delightful start to the meal.

Whichever sides you choose, the key is to create a balanced plate that highlights the flavors of your *thanksgiving meatballs crockpot*. Enjoy your gathering and the wonderful food!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers from your *thanksgiving meatballs crockpot* is super easy, and trust me, you’ll want to save every last bite! Once your meatballs have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. Make sure to include some of that luscious cranberry sauce to keep them moist and flavorful. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, which is perfect for snacking or meal prep later in the week!

If you want to keep them for even longer, you can freeze the meatballs. Just be sure to let them cool completely before transferring them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, try to squeeze out as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it. Remember to label it with the date so you know when they were made!

When it comes time to reheat, I recommend gently warming them to preserve their juicy texture. If you’re using the microwave, place the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Heat in short bursts, about 30 seconds at a time, until they’re heated through. If you prefer the stovetop, toss them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra cranberry sauce to help steam and heat them evenly.

For the best results, avoid reheating them on high heat, as that can make them tough. With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll enjoy your delicious meatballs just as much the next day!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.