Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones and sharing delicious food, and these Thanksgiving meatballs are the perfect addition to your holiday spread! They’re not just your average meatballs; they’re packed with flavor and a hint of seasonal charm. I love how the combination of ground turkey, fragrant herbs, and that sweet-tart cranberry sauce creates a unique dish that warms the heart and soul. Plus, they’re super easy to make and can be prepped in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with family. Imagine serving these flavorful bites alongside your traditional Thanksgiving feast, and watching everyone go back for seconds! Trust me, once you try these Thanksgiving meatballs, you’ll want them as part of your holiday tradition every year.
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Meatballs
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (for serving)
Make sure to measure your ingredients carefully for the best results! I always recommend using fresh parsley for that vibrant flavor, and don’t skimp on the garlic—trust me, it adds a lovely depth to the meatballs. And remember, if you want to make these ahead of time, the meatballs freeze beautifully, so you can prep them whenever you like!
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Meatballs
Preheat Your Oven
First things first—let’s get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your meatballs cook evenly and develop that lovely golden-brown crust. While the oven is warming up, you can get started on mixing your meatball ingredients!
Mix and Shape the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to combine all those delicious ingredients! Start by adding the lean ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Use your hands or a sturdy spatula to mix everything together until just combined—don’t overwork it, or your meatballs might turn out tough! Once everything is mixed, grab a small handful of the mixture and shape it into a meatball about the size of a golf ball. I usually aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter, but you can customize them to your liking!
Bake the Meatballs
Now, let’s get those meatballs on a baking sheet! Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and place your meatballs on the sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The aroma will fill your kitchen, and trust me, you won’t be able to resist sneaking a taste before serving them with that tangy cranberry sauce!
Tips for Success with Thanksgiving Meatballs
To make sure your Thanksgiving meatballs turn out absolutely delicious, I’ve got a few tips to share! First, definitely stick with lean ground turkey; it keeps the meatballs juicy while still being a healthier option. If you want to amp up the flavor, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste—maybe a little extra thyme or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat! Also, remember to let the mixture rest for a few minutes before shaping the meatballs; it helps the flavors meld together beautifully. And here’s a little secret: if you want to add a touch of sweetness, mix in a spoonful of cranberry sauce right into the meatball mixture! You’ll be amazed at how great they taste. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously unique flavor that captures the essence of Thanksgiving.
- Easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday cooking.
- Healthier option with lean ground turkey while still being hearty and satisfying.
- Versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with cranberry sauce and other sides.
- Freezes well, so you can make them ahead of time for convenience.
- Kid-friendly and sure to please guests of all ages.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices for a personal touch.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of these delightful Thanksgiving meatballs, which consists of four meatballs. Keep in mind that these values are based on typical ingredients and may vary slightly depending on specific brands and measurements used.
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 20g
These meatballs not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide a balanced punch of nutrition, making them a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table!
FAQ About Thanksgiving Meatballs
Got questions about these Thanksgiving meatballs? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and answers to help you make the most of this delicious dish.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and either bake them ahead of time or shape them and store them in the fridge for a day. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftover meatballs?
If you have any meatballs left over (which is rare because they’re so good!), simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure they’re well-wrapped!
What can I substitute for ground turkey?
If you’re not a turkey fan, feel free to swap in lean ground beef or chicken! You could even try ground pork for a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To keep these meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They’ll still turn out just as tasty!
What should I serve with Thanksgiving meatballs?
These meatballs pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. And of course, don’t forget that cranberry sauce for dipping—it’s the perfect match!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these delightful Thanksgiving meatballs, the options are endless! I love pairing them with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting classic, or you could go for roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a touch of color and nutrition. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness of the meatballs beautifully. And let’s not forget about that essential cranberry sauce—it not only adds a burst of flavor but also brings a festive touch to your plate. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this delicious combination!
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Thanksgiving Meatballs: 7 Heartwarming Reasons to Try Them
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious meatballs perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
- Serve with cranberry sauce.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- These meatballs freeze well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: thanksgiving meatballs
